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Billy Harney #0.6
The Coldest Case: The Past Has a Long Memory
The follow-up to the number one smash hit The Coldest Case: A Black Book Audio Drama.
Someone is committing random murders across Chicago—and making sure detectives Billy Harney (Aaron Paul) and Patti Harney (Krysten Ritter) are first on the crime scene. What connects the victims, and why is the killer leaving clues behind with each body? Billy and Patti are scrambling to stop the next killing when their father, Chief of Detectives Dan Harney (Beau Bridges), is kidnapped. But in their race to track him down, they uncover pieces of his past that simply can’t be true. Could their own flesh and blood be covering up a dark secret?
James Patterson does it again with the latest entry in the Billy Harney Thriller series. Packed with twists, turns, and shocking revelations, The Coldest Case: The Past Has a Long Memory grabs you in minutes and doesn’t let go. Aaron Paul, Krysten Ritter, and Beau Bridges return to their roles, joined by an all-star cast including Greta Lee, Kevin Pollak, Jordan Bridges as young Dan Harney, and Patton Oswalt as himself. The crackling performances are paired with a jaw-dropping, immersive sound design that puts you in the heart of the action.
Please note: This audio drama is for mature audiences only. It contains strong language, violence, and sexual content. Discretion is advised.
Someone is committing random murders across Chicago—and making sure detectives Billy Harney (Aaron Paul) and Patti Harney (Krysten Ritter) are first on the crime scene. What connects the victims, and why is the killer leaving clues behind with each body? Billy and Patti are scrambling to stop the next killing when their father, Chief of Detectives Dan Harney (Beau Bridges), is kidnapped. But in their race to track him down, they uncover pieces of his past that simply can’t be true. Could their own flesh and blood be covering up a dark secret?
James Patterson does it again with the latest entry in the Billy Harney Thriller series. Packed with twists, turns, and shocking revelations, The Coldest Case: The Past Has a Long Memory grabs you in minutes and doesn’t let go. Aaron Paul, Krysten Ritter, and Beau Bridges return to their roles, joined by an all-star cast including Greta Lee, Kevin Pollak, Jordan Bridges as young Dan Harney, and Patton Oswalt as himself. The crackling performances are paired with a jaw-dropping, immersive sound design that puts you in the heart of the action.
Please note: This audio drama is for mature audiences only. It contains strong language, violence, and sexual content. Discretion is advised.
4 pages, Audible Audio
First published March 11, 2021
About the author
James Patterson
986 books359k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, Michael Crichton, and Viola Davis, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, Michael Crichton, and Viola Davis, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews
May 23, 2021
A relatively big 0.5 book with running time of 3 hrs and 52 mins.
The Coldest Case has a highly entertaining audio performance! I fall into the category of liking the dramatization than hating it. It does have some drawbacks, although small, where sound effects and background noise can be distracting and make some dialogues difficult to hear. The story is decent, local politics and crime in Chicago and an undercover police get mixed up in a sting operation.
3⭐ for story
5⭐ for audio
The Coldest Case has a highly entertaining audio performance! I fall into the category of liking the dramatization than hating it. It does have some drawbacks, although small, where sound effects and background noise can be distracting and make some dialogues difficult to hear. The story is decent, local politics and crime in Chicago and an undercover police get mixed up in a sting operation.
3⭐ for story
5⭐ for audio
November 24, 2021
Having recently discovered James Patterson's experimentation in 'direct to audio’ work, I was pleased to get my hands on this piece. It brings to life a new series that has a great deal of potential, working with collaborators Aaron Tracy and Ryan Silbert. The story is layered with a great plot and some sensational character interactions, which is intensified by the audio. While the Chicago PD is not known for its simple cases, this one is particularly tough. Thank goodness Detectives Billy and Patti Harney are working it as best they can. When Billy’s partner gets too deep while undercover, she needs to be extracted, but that only leads to added issues. Billy soon realises that there is a powerful list of names in a secret book, ones that could lead to the death of countless others if it falls into the wrong hands. Patterson wins with this one, in a story that comes to life through audio.
A sinister drug ring has been working in Chicago for years, something that Chicago PD Detective Billy Harney has been investigating. Working alongside his sister, Patti, they are trying to eke out some information about something big. When Billy's partner, Kate, embeds herself into the group, there is hope that something will come of it. After a gaffe sees many turn up dead, Kate is almost revealed as a cop and she must be taken into protective custody, but not before an essential informant goes missing. Amongst all the chaos, a special black book containing key information has gone missing and the drug ring is hell-bent on finding it, no matter the cost. Key clients could be outed otherwise!
As Billy and Patti investigate the contents of the black book, they realise that it is more than meets the eye, with crooked athletes and corrupt politicians front and centre on the list. On the side, Billy and Patti discover the intense world of on-line gaming and how ruthless it can be. This helps them crack open a little part of the case, but also pushes them deeper into confusion as well. When the black book reveals a chilling secret that could lead to many deaths, it's a race to get to the scene on time to prevent disaster. The fate of many rests in the hands of the Harneys. Patterson excites with ease as he creates a story many can enjoy in only a few hours!
While James Patterson has moments of greatness and others of frigidity, this was surely one of the greater publication, released solely through audio. The story was crisp and the plot flowed well, keeping the reader engaged throughout and eager to see how things would progress. Said to be the prequel of the Black Book series, this story works really well and offers listeners something exciting in a short period of time. Patterson and his collaborators develop a wonderful script and use a star-studded cast to bring it all to life.
The characters were all cast well and the multitude of voices surely brought things to a new level. I was able to follow things with ease, even if I had to listen very carefully to ensure I did not miss anything. The plot was on point and left me begging for me, as I learned a little more about the Harneys and how well they function together. While I do love a good book, this was an excellent alternative and gave me something special to enjoy amidst all the craziness I find surrounds me these days. A step above a simple audiobook, Patterson and his collaborators have left me wanting more!
Kudos, Messrs. Patterson, Tracy, and Silbert, for a great story and wonderful experience. I look forward to future collaborations, as they become possible.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
A sinister drug ring has been working in Chicago for years, something that Chicago PD Detective Billy Harney has been investigating. Working alongside his sister, Patti, they are trying to eke out some information about something big. When Billy's partner, Kate, embeds herself into the group, there is hope that something will come of it. After a gaffe sees many turn up dead, Kate is almost revealed as a cop and she must be taken into protective custody, but not before an essential informant goes missing. Amongst all the chaos, a special black book containing key information has gone missing and the drug ring is hell-bent on finding it, no matter the cost. Key clients could be outed otherwise!
As Billy and Patti investigate the contents of the black book, they realise that it is more than meets the eye, with crooked athletes and corrupt politicians front and centre on the list. On the side, Billy and Patti discover the intense world of on-line gaming and how ruthless it can be. This helps them crack open a little part of the case, but also pushes them deeper into confusion as well. When the black book reveals a chilling secret that could lead to many deaths, it's a race to get to the scene on time to prevent disaster. The fate of many rests in the hands of the Harneys. Patterson excites with ease as he creates a story many can enjoy in only a few hours!
While James Patterson has moments of greatness and others of frigidity, this was surely one of the greater publication, released solely through audio. The story was crisp and the plot flowed well, keeping the reader engaged throughout and eager to see how things would progress. Said to be the prequel of the Black Book series, this story works really well and offers listeners something exciting in a short period of time. Patterson and his collaborators develop a wonderful script and use a star-studded cast to bring it all to life.
The characters were all cast well and the multitude of voices surely brought things to a new level. I was able to follow things with ease, even if I had to listen very carefully to ensure I did not miss anything. The plot was on point and left me begging for me, as I learned a little more about the Harneys and how well they function together. While I do love a good book, this was an excellent alternative and gave me something special to enjoy amidst all the craziness I find surrounds me these days. A step above a simple audiobook, Patterson and his collaborators have left me wanting more!
Kudos, Messrs. Patterson, Tracy, and Silbert, for a great story and wonderful experience. I look forward to future collaborations, as they become possible.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
April 8, 2021
I generally don't go for the "audio dramas" that Audible produces: They are like watching tv without a picture, or listening to the soundtrack of a play -- different voices and sound effects, not a narrator reading and giving life to the author's words. But this one was well put together.
Aaron Paul's voice kept bringing to mind "Harry Bosch", and I saw Titus Welliver's face as I listened.
Although I figured out the "bad guy" early on, it was still a nail-biter. Minus one star because there were a few places that I got lost because of background noises, or not getting the "picture" from the sounds.
Aaron Paul's voice kept bringing to mind "Harry Bosch", and I saw Titus Welliver's face as I listened.
Although I figured out the "bad guy" early on, it was still a nail-biter. Minus one star because there were a few places that I got lost because of background noises, or not getting the "picture" from the sounds.
December 19, 2024
Story 3.75 stars**
Audio all cast performance 5 stars**
Narrators Aaron Paul
Krysten Ritter
Beau Bridges
Greta Lee
Kevin Pollak
Jordan Bridges
Terrence Terrell
Patton Oswalt
Audio all cast performance 5 stars**
Narrators Aaron Paul
Krysten Ritter
Beau Bridges
Greta Lee
Kevin Pollak
Jordan Bridges
Terrence Terrell
Patton Oswalt
May 20, 2025
The Coldest Case: The Past Has a Long Memory is a brilliant entertaining audible original with a fantastic cast of narrators and fast-paced drama.
When a random series of murders begin to occur across Chicago, twin detectives Patti (Krysten Ritter) and Bill Harney (Aaron Paul) are on the case. Each murder is shocking and happens right in front of them, leaving them unable to save the victims. The murderer is leaving clues with each victim, leaving the twins scrambling to solve the case and stop the murders.
Patti receives a typed letter anonymously leaving her with questions about her father, Chief of Detectives Dan Harney (Beau Bridges), but before she can get any answers, he is kidnapped. As the pair race to find him and save him from a sadistic killer, they find out information pointing at a dark secret from their fathers past, but how dies it connect to the murder cases they're also racing to solve?
I love these audible books - the addition of multiple narrators, immersive sounds and music make them entertaining and very immersive; I feel like I'm right there in the thick of it all.
When a random series of murders begin to occur across Chicago, twin detectives Patti (Krysten Ritter) and Bill Harney (Aaron Paul) are on the case. Each murder is shocking and happens right in front of them, leaving them unable to save the victims. The murderer is leaving clues with each victim, leaving the twins scrambling to solve the case and stop the murders.
Patti receives a typed letter anonymously leaving her with questions about her father, Chief of Detectives Dan Harney (Beau Bridges), but before she can get any answers, he is kidnapped. As the pair race to find him and save him from a sadistic killer, they find out information pointing at a dark secret from their fathers past, but how dies it connect to the murder cases they're also racing to solve?
I love these audible books - the addition of multiple narrators, immersive sounds and music make them entertaining and very immersive; I feel like I'm right there in the thick of it all.
April 24, 2021
This is a short audio drama audiobook. The narrators did a wonderful job; if they hadn't I wouldn't have gotten to the end. The biggest beef is the main character, a detective who comes from a family of "blue", who is absolutely trusting. After all those years of being a policeman, he believes all he is told. When his new partner lies the first time he believes her, when she is caught in the lie he sticks up for her. Oh well, there wouldn't have been this story if he had not believed her (There could have been a better story). And lastly, he finds out she has been using drugs for a long time but he (a detective from a line of blue) never noticed. Would not recommend it.
April 16, 2021
That was such a fun audible original. Great way to end the week
May 21, 2022
I listened the audiobook. 😊
November 11, 2021
This was fun read! It was interesting how they included background noises to add the scenes for the characters.
May 15, 2023
Love love love hearing Aaron Paul as a part of this cast. The story was so so but the cast really made up for it.
August 18, 2026
Both are meh
December 3, 2021
Great audible book starring Aaron Paul. Crime thriller by James Patterson. I stayed up late into the night listening to it.
April 7, 2021
This was really quite entertaining. I felt like I was listening to a television show or movie with the sound effects and full cast production. I used to read a lot of James Patterson but am really not a fan of his work at this point but this sounded interesting and it was free to borrow so I took a chance and I am glad that I did. I liked the characters in this story and was very interested on how the mystery would work out. I don't see myself becoming a James Patterson fangirl anytime soon but I wouldn't hesitate to listen to something like this again in the future.
Book source: Audible Plus
Book source: Audible Plus
February 27, 2026
Crime, Corruption, and a Killer Cast
The following ratings are out of 5:
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😋🙂😁😎☺️
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Full Cast Narration – dramatized adaptation
Audiobook Review: The Coldest Case: A Black Book Audio Drama
Author: James Patterson
Genre: Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
Narrator(s): Aaron Paul, Krysten Ritter, Nathalie Emmanuel, Beau Bridges, full cast
👥 Characters and Plot
The story drops you straight into the high-pressure world of Detective Billy Harney, who finds himself leading an investigation into a sprawling drug operation with political and personal landmines at every turn. His new partner, Kate, is deep undercover inside the organization, and when their freshly flipped informant turns up dead, Billy makes a split-second decision: raid the location they’ve been watching rather than risk Kate’s cover being blown. His choice is driven by instinct and fear for her safety, but it sparks immediate tension, Kate believes she could have dug deeper if given more time, and the fallout from the raid proves she may be right.
What they seize, a massive brick of heroin, is only part of what they were supposed to find. The attorney general quickly informs them that the real prize was a ledger packed with the names of high-profile buyers. That missing ledger becomes the investigation’s new center of gravity. As the team digs in, they discover that Sandra, a low-level dealer Kate befriended, slipped out just before the raid. When Sandra tries to sell the ledger to a famous football player, the case widens into a dangerous mix of criminal ambition, political vulnerability, and personal betrayal.
The supporting cast adds richness and texture to the story. Billy’s twin sister Patti, also a cop, brings both emotional grounding and professional tension. Their father, the chief of detectives, looms large over every decision. Edgar, the precinct’s IT wizard, injects humor and heart. Patti’s fiancé, a sports agent entangled in a gubernatorial campaign, adds another layer of political intrigue, especially since Billy’s own wife is working for the opposing candidate. These intersecting loyalties and pressures make the world feel lived-in and the stakes feel real.
🎭 Full-Cast Production & Performances
The audiobook’s full-cast format transforms the story into a cinematic experience. With narrators like Ryan Silbert, Aaron Paul, Krysten Ritter, Nathalie Emmanuel, Beau Bridges, Mark‑Paul Gosselaar, Alexis Bledel, and others, the production is more a scripted audio drama than a traditional audiobook. The use of ambient sound, dialogue-only storytelling, and scene-driven pacing creates an immersive environment where you’re not just listening, you’re inside the investigation.
Aaron Paul is especially compelling as Billy Harney. His voice carries the grit, exhaustion, and stubborn determination of a detective who’s seen too much but refuses to back down. The rest of the cast delivers equally strong performances, each actor giving their character a distinct presence that makes the large ensemble easy to follow and deeply engaging.
⭐ Final Opinion
This audiobook is a gripping, character-rich thriller elevated by a stellar full-cast performance. The layered plot, the political undercurrents, and the emotional complexity of the characters make it compelling on its own, but the immersive production turns it into something special. Even with a few slower stretches, the overall experience is tense, cinematic, and thoroughly entertaining. It’s the kind of audiobook that reminds you how powerful full-cast storytelling can be when every element, writing, acting, and sound design, fires on all cylinders.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😋🙂😁😎☺️
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Full Cast Narration – dramatized adaptation
Audiobook Review: The Coldest Case: A Black Book Audio Drama
Author: James Patterson
Genre: Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
Narrator(s): Aaron Paul, Krysten Ritter, Nathalie Emmanuel, Beau Bridges, full cast
👥 Characters and Plot
The story drops you straight into the high-pressure world of Detective Billy Harney, who finds himself leading an investigation into a sprawling drug operation with political and personal landmines at every turn. His new partner, Kate, is deep undercover inside the organization, and when their freshly flipped informant turns up dead, Billy makes a split-second decision: raid the location they’ve been watching rather than risk Kate’s cover being blown. His choice is driven by instinct and fear for her safety, but it sparks immediate tension, Kate believes she could have dug deeper if given more time, and the fallout from the raid proves she may be right.
What they seize, a massive brick of heroin, is only part of what they were supposed to find. The attorney general quickly informs them that the real prize was a ledger packed with the names of high-profile buyers. That missing ledger becomes the investigation’s new center of gravity. As the team digs in, they discover that Sandra, a low-level dealer Kate befriended, slipped out just before the raid. When Sandra tries to sell the ledger to a famous football player, the case widens into a dangerous mix of criminal ambition, political vulnerability, and personal betrayal.
The supporting cast adds richness and texture to the story. Billy’s twin sister Patti, also a cop, brings both emotional grounding and professional tension. Their father, the chief of detectives, looms large over every decision. Edgar, the precinct’s IT wizard, injects humor and heart. Patti’s fiancé, a sports agent entangled in a gubernatorial campaign, adds another layer of political intrigue, especially since Billy’s own wife is working for the opposing candidate. These intersecting loyalties and pressures make the world feel lived-in and the stakes feel real.
🎭 Full-Cast Production & Performances
The audiobook’s full-cast format transforms the story into a cinematic experience. With narrators like Ryan Silbert, Aaron Paul, Krysten Ritter, Nathalie Emmanuel, Beau Bridges, Mark‑Paul Gosselaar, Alexis Bledel, and others, the production is more a scripted audio drama than a traditional audiobook. The use of ambient sound, dialogue-only storytelling, and scene-driven pacing creates an immersive environment where you’re not just listening, you’re inside the investigation.
Aaron Paul is especially compelling as Billy Harney. His voice carries the grit, exhaustion, and stubborn determination of a detective who’s seen too much but refuses to back down. The rest of the cast delivers equally strong performances, each actor giving their character a distinct presence that makes the large ensemble easy to follow and deeply engaging.
⭐ Final Opinion
This audiobook is a gripping, character-rich thriller elevated by a stellar full-cast performance. The layered plot, the political undercurrents, and the emotional complexity of the characters make it compelling on its own, but the immersive production turns it into something special. Even with a few slower stretches, the overall experience is tense, cinematic, and thoroughly entertaining. It’s the kind of audiobook that reminds you how powerful full-cast storytelling can be when every element, writing, acting, and sound design, fires on all cylinders.
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September 29, 2024
Introduction
Welcome to a thrilling ride with James Patterson's "The Coldest Case," an Audible original. This gripping mystery, featuring an all-star cast, is sure to captivate fans of the adult fiction genre. With fast-paced storytelling and an unexpected ending, this audiobook delivers entertainment and suspense in equal measure.
Main Characters
• Billy Harney (Aaron Paul) - A dedicated detective with a sharp mind and relentless pursuit of justice. I must confess that I am an Aaron Paul fan and this is what attracted me to the audible version of the book.
• Patti Harney (Krysten Ritter) - Billy's twin sister and partner, equally tenacious and skilled.
• Dan Harney (Beau Bridges) - The patriarch of the Harney family, bringing wisdom and experience to the mix.
Supporting roles include Greta Lee, Kevin Pollak, Jordan Bridges as young Dan Harney, and Patton Oswalt playing himself, adding depth and charm to the narrative.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around twin detectives Billy and Patti Harney as they tackle a convoluted case that takes them through a labyrinth of clues and false leads. Their unique bond and complementary skills make them a formidable team. The narrative moves at a brisk pace, ensuring there's never a dull moment. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Patterson throws in a twist that will leave you reeling.
Who Should or Should Not Read the Book
Should Read:
• Mystery Lovers - If you enjoy piecing together clues and following detectives on their quest for truth.
• Audiobook Enthusiasts - The stellar cast brings the characters to life in a way that only seasoned actors can.
• James Patterson Fans - True to form, Patterson delivers another edge-of-your-seat thriller.
Should Not Read:
• If you prefer intricate, slow-burning mysteries with heavy psychological elements.
• Readers looking for a deeply serious or somber narrative.
My Opinion
"The Coldest Case" is a light, entertaining, and often funny listen that showcases the talents of its all-star cast. Aaron Paul and Krysten Ritter shine as the Harney twins, their chemistry adding a layer of authenticity to the story. Beau Bridges and the supporting cast, including Kevin Pollak and Patton Oswalt, enhance the experience with their exceptional performances.
Overall, the book is a delightful mix of classic cop drama and modern storytelling, making it a perfect pick for anyone looking to escape into a well-crafted mystery. The unexpected ending is a testament to Patterson's ability to keep his audience guessing until the very last moment. If you’re a fan of the genre, don’t miss out on this Audible gem.
The opinions expressed in this review are my own because as a United States citizen I have freedom of speech.
Welcome to a thrilling ride with James Patterson's "The Coldest Case," an Audible original. This gripping mystery, featuring an all-star cast, is sure to captivate fans of the adult fiction genre. With fast-paced storytelling and an unexpected ending, this audiobook delivers entertainment and suspense in equal measure.
Main Characters
• Billy Harney (Aaron Paul) - A dedicated detective with a sharp mind and relentless pursuit of justice. I must confess that I am an Aaron Paul fan and this is what attracted me to the audible version of the book.
• Patti Harney (Krysten Ritter) - Billy's twin sister and partner, equally tenacious and skilled.
• Dan Harney (Beau Bridges) - The patriarch of the Harney family, bringing wisdom and experience to the mix.
Supporting roles include Greta Lee, Kevin Pollak, Jordan Bridges as young Dan Harney, and Patton Oswalt playing himself, adding depth and charm to the narrative.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around twin detectives Billy and Patti Harney as they tackle a convoluted case that takes them through a labyrinth of clues and false leads. Their unique bond and complementary skills make them a formidable team. The narrative moves at a brisk pace, ensuring there's never a dull moment. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Patterson throws in a twist that will leave you reeling.
Who Should or Should Not Read the Book
Should Read:
• Mystery Lovers - If you enjoy piecing together clues and following detectives on their quest for truth.
• Audiobook Enthusiasts - The stellar cast brings the characters to life in a way that only seasoned actors can.
• James Patterson Fans - True to form, Patterson delivers another edge-of-your-seat thriller.
Should Not Read:
• If you prefer intricate, slow-burning mysteries with heavy psychological elements.
• Readers looking for a deeply serious or somber narrative.
My Opinion
"The Coldest Case" is a light, entertaining, and often funny listen that showcases the talents of its all-star cast. Aaron Paul and Krysten Ritter shine as the Harney twins, their chemistry adding a layer of authenticity to the story. Beau Bridges and the supporting cast, including Kevin Pollak and Patton Oswalt, enhance the experience with their exceptional performances.
Overall, the book is a delightful mix of classic cop drama and modern storytelling, making it a perfect pick for anyone looking to escape into a well-crafted mystery. The unexpected ending is a testament to Patterson's ability to keep his audience guessing until the very last moment. If you’re a fan of the genre, don’t miss out on this Audible gem.
The opinions expressed in this review are my own because as a United States citizen I have freedom of speech.
January 15, 2025
Incredibly well performed by all of those involved with the Audio Book. James Patterson managed to not only bring this story to life,, but also sis an immaculate job of keeping you busy trying to unravel all of the events.
October 21, 2022
Full disclosure - this was a full cast production which was free! Not a favoured author of mine, but I know he is widely enjoyed. Good performances, the story just wasn't my cup of tea.
July 25, 2024
Quite silly & inconceivable, but a super fun audio book. Aaron Paul does a fantastic job!!
February 28, 2026
When the Case Hits Too Close to Home
The following ratings are out of 5:
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😋🙂😁😎
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Full Cast Narration – dramatized adaptation
Audiobook Review: The Coldest Case: The Past Has a Long Memory
Author: James Patterson, Ryan Silbert and Aaron Tracy
Genre: Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
Narrator(s): Aaron Paul, Krysten Ritter, Beau Bridges, Kevin Pollak, Patton Oswald, full cast
👥 Characters and Plot
Detective Billy Harney and his twin sister, Detective Patti Harney, are thrown into another high‑stakes investigation when a tip leads them to a body hidden beneath a buoy in Lake Michigan. The discovery is grisly, but the circumstances are even stranger, especially when a second anonymous call sends them racing to a man rigged with a homemade magnet bomb designed to trigger his pacemaker. Both victims are over seventy‑five, and both worked for the same construction company four decades earlier, hinting at a long‑buried secret finally clawing its way to the surface.
The case turns personal when their father, the chief of detectives, is kidnapped. As Billy and Patti scramble to uncover who took him and why, a mysterious file appears under Patti’s door, proof that their father has been paying someone an enormous sum of money for forty years. The revelation forces the twins to confront the possibility that the man they idolized has been hiding a life they never imagined. The tension between the investigation and the unraveling family history gives the story emotional weight, even as the plot barrels forward with Patterson‑style momentum.
The mystery is exciting and fast paced, though the previous book felt a bit tighter and more emotionally cohesive. Still, the characters remain incredibly likable, and the sibling dynamic continues to be one of the series’ strongest elements. The twist involving beloved characters from the first book stings, but it also adds complexity and stakes that deepen the narrative.
🎭 Full‑Cast Production & Performances
The full cast production once again transforms the audiobook into a cinematic experience. Aaron Paul and Krysten Ritter slip effortlessly back into their roles, grounding the story with grit and emotional nuance. Beau Bridges brings gravitas to the Harney family’s unraveling secrets, while Greta Lee, Kevin Pollak, Jordan Bridges (as young Dan Harney), and even Patton Oswalt add texture and personality to the expanding world.
As with the first book, the dramatic audio format elevates the material. The layered sound design, overlapping dialogue, and immersive pacing make it feel like a prestige crime drama unfolding in your mind. It’s not just an audiobook, it’s an experience.
⭐ Final Opinion
This sequel delivers a gripping, character driven mystery with strong emotional undercurrents, even if it doesn’t quite surpass the previous installment. The plot is twisty, the stakes are personal, and the Harney twins remain compelling anchors in a world full of secrets. The full‑cast production is the true standout, turning every scene into something vivid and cinematic. While some revelations about familiar characters may be hard to swallow, they ultimately enrich the story and push the series into deeper, more morally tangled territory. Overall, it’s a thoroughly entertaining listen, fast, immersive, and packed with the kind of dramatic tension that keeps you pressing play.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😋🙂😁😎
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Full Cast Narration – dramatized adaptation
Audiobook Review: The Coldest Case: The Past Has a Long Memory
Author: James Patterson, Ryan Silbert and Aaron Tracy
Genre: Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
Narrator(s): Aaron Paul, Krysten Ritter, Beau Bridges, Kevin Pollak, Patton Oswald, full cast
👥 Characters and Plot
Detective Billy Harney and his twin sister, Detective Patti Harney, are thrown into another high‑stakes investigation when a tip leads them to a body hidden beneath a buoy in Lake Michigan. The discovery is grisly, but the circumstances are even stranger, especially when a second anonymous call sends them racing to a man rigged with a homemade magnet bomb designed to trigger his pacemaker. Both victims are over seventy‑five, and both worked for the same construction company four decades earlier, hinting at a long‑buried secret finally clawing its way to the surface.
The case turns personal when their father, the chief of detectives, is kidnapped. As Billy and Patti scramble to uncover who took him and why, a mysterious file appears under Patti’s door, proof that their father has been paying someone an enormous sum of money for forty years. The revelation forces the twins to confront the possibility that the man they idolized has been hiding a life they never imagined. The tension between the investigation and the unraveling family history gives the story emotional weight, even as the plot barrels forward with Patterson‑style momentum.
The mystery is exciting and fast paced, though the previous book felt a bit tighter and more emotionally cohesive. Still, the characters remain incredibly likable, and the sibling dynamic continues to be one of the series’ strongest elements. The twist involving beloved characters from the first book stings, but it also adds complexity and stakes that deepen the narrative.
🎭 Full‑Cast Production & Performances
The full cast production once again transforms the audiobook into a cinematic experience. Aaron Paul and Krysten Ritter slip effortlessly back into their roles, grounding the story with grit and emotional nuance. Beau Bridges brings gravitas to the Harney family’s unraveling secrets, while Greta Lee, Kevin Pollak, Jordan Bridges (as young Dan Harney), and even Patton Oswalt add texture and personality to the expanding world.
As with the first book, the dramatic audio format elevates the material. The layered sound design, overlapping dialogue, and immersive pacing make it feel like a prestige crime drama unfolding in your mind. It’s not just an audiobook, it’s an experience.
⭐ Final Opinion
This sequel delivers a gripping, character driven mystery with strong emotional undercurrents, even if it doesn’t quite surpass the previous installment. The plot is twisty, the stakes are personal, and the Harney twins remain compelling anchors in a world full of secrets. The full‑cast production is the true standout, turning every scene into something vivid and cinematic. While some revelations about familiar characters may be hard to swallow, they ultimately enrich the story and push the series into deeper, more morally tangled territory. Overall, it’s a thoroughly entertaining listen, fast, immersive, and packed with the kind of dramatic tension that keeps you pressing play.
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June 25, 2023
I'd listen to this whole series if it was recorded like this.
I listen to both traditional audiobooks that just narrate the story too, but I find these audio dramas to be more engaging at times. I can understand why people might not like to essentially listen to a TV show, but I find them enjoyable - especially when I'm doing something else like cleaning or grinding in a video game.
I listen to both traditional audiobooks that just narrate the story too, but I find these audio dramas to be more engaging at times. I can understand why people might not like to essentially listen to a TV show, but I find them enjoyable - especially when I'm doing something else like cleaning or grinding in a video game.
November 7, 2021
Really enjoyed the was this was done. Having and audio drama really adds a lot to the story. I love police drama shows and this made it feel like I was watching something instead of just listening to a book. Looking forward to more done like this!
The story as well was good. I really felt like having it acted out made the characters so much more real and really made me feel invested in what happened. After listening I had to go find what else the Billy Harney character was up to and added several more books to my list.
The story as well was good. I really felt like having it acted out made the characters so much more real and really made me feel invested in what happened. After listening I had to go find what else the Billy Harney character was up to and added several more books to my list.
April 17, 2021
3.5 Stars
My first time listening to an audio drama and it was like listening to a crime TV show. The story wasn't anything new or spectacular but still very enjoyable. I did feel like the comedy show bit was cringe worthy and unnecessary. Overall it was worth the listen.
My first time listening to an audio drama and it was like listening to a crime TV show. The story wasn't anything new or spectacular but still very enjoyable. I did feel like the comedy show bit was cringe worthy and unnecessary. Overall it was worth the listen.
March 31, 2021
This was very entertaining and kept me on the edge of my seat. I listened to the audio and it is more like a performance than the reading of a book. When I was walking the dog, I would hear something from the audio and think it was part of the real-life around me (like voices or noises). It was sort of funny. This is all Patterson. If you like his writing (which I do), you will enjoy this.
February 2, 2026
Patterson's Coldest Case is a slick, high speed chase through a frozen mystery where the past is a homicidal memory. Lots of short chapters and plot twists that feel a bit "Convenient." It's a solid 3.5 thriller, exhilarating, slightly predictable but undeniably addictive.
February 27, 2026
This was my first ever James Patterson; I'm not personally a fan of his "writer's stable" thing, which is why I'd avoided his work for so long, but after learning more about him, he does seem like a very good guy, so when I saw his name popping up repeatedly among the full-cast audio dramas I like to listen to, I figured I'd give him a chance. Though perhaps a prequel novella isn't the most representative choice from which to judge a writer's career, I can see why his work is popular. The characters in the story were likeable, and despite its flaws, I was entertained enough to want to pick up the follow-up prequel. Part of me is even considering moving on after that to the main novel series, though I'm more hesitant since the endearing cast of actors is definitely part of the charm here.
Of course, as I've already mentioned, this isn't the perfect story. I will say that critiquing audio is a little hard for me because I do miss details sometimes, so I'm always afraid that I just misunderstood something when I think I'm picking up on errors, but I do genuinely think there were issues with this one. The policework and general life choices of the characters strained the limits of believability in several different ways for me. Overall, I'm not impressed with any of the characters, but I did enjoy them as people, and the "cop family" dynamic is fun, too.
Of course, as I've already mentioned, this isn't the perfect story. I will say that critiquing audio is a little hard for me because I do miss details sometimes, so I'm always afraid that I just misunderstood something when I think I'm picking up on errors, but I do genuinely think there were issues with this one. The policework and general life choices of the characters strained the limits of believability in several different ways for me. Overall, I'm not impressed with any of the characters, but I did enjoy them as people, and the "cop family" dynamic is fun, too.
August 15, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is my personal 5 star rating system because I’m too lazy to write a review for every book.
5 stars -> OMFG. I couldn’t stop listening. I was engaged from beginning to end. The story & narrator was amazing. I 100% recommend this book & author. I was able to clearly follow each and every character.
4 stars -> It was pretty good. I would’ve rated 5 stars, But either the ending was lacking, I struggled to keep up with characters, or the story didn’t keep me fully engaged. The narrator was pretty good as well. I’m on the fence about recommending this book, It could go either way.
3 Stars -> It was boring at times & I missed chunks of the story. I most likely struggled to keep up with character developments. The only way I would recommend this book is if it was part of a series. The narrator was most likely average or just couldn’t fix a mediocre book.
2 Stars -> It was pretty horrible. I used it as background noise because I hadn’t had a chance to search for another book. The book either had a bad narrator, The character development was non existent, or the story was hot garbage. I would not recommend this book.
1 Star -> The absolute only reason I listened to this book was because i had no time to search for another one & I needed background noise. It was 1 step up from listening to the radio. I wouldn’t recommend this book to my worst enemy. Everything about this book was terrible. This is only recommended for people on death row and have absolutely nothing else to read.
5 stars -> OMFG. I couldn’t stop listening. I was engaged from beginning to end. The story & narrator was amazing. I 100% recommend this book & author. I was able to clearly follow each and every character.
4 stars -> It was pretty good. I would’ve rated 5 stars, But either the ending was lacking, I struggled to keep up with characters, or the story didn’t keep me fully engaged. The narrator was pretty good as well. I’m on the fence about recommending this book, It could go either way.
3 Stars -> It was boring at times & I missed chunks of the story. I most likely struggled to keep up with character developments. The only way I would recommend this book is if it was part of a series. The narrator was most likely average or just couldn’t fix a mediocre book.
2 Stars -> It was pretty horrible. I used it as background noise because I hadn’t had a chance to search for another book. The book either had a bad narrator, The character development was non existent, or the story was hot garbage. I would not recommend this book.
1 Star -> The absolute only reason I listened to this book was because i had no time to search for another one & I needed background noise. It was 1 step up from listening to the radio. I wouldn’t recommend this book to my worst enemy. Everything about this book was terrible. This is only recommended for people on death row and have absolutely nothing else to read.
January 26, 2023
This audible book is kind of like a really bad TV show. Really bad. No you probably already know that Goodreads has a five star policy but four stars are all four various levels of Ookay to very good. Only one star has a negative meaning. I think that’s right anyway. so I did give this presentation to stars because I was feeling generous. There were almost 2 minutes at the end where they listed off all the voices that appeared in this presentation. This was kind of like listening to the soundtrack of a bad TV show. The two stars is simply to say that it took a whole lot of people to bring this story to this point, and to achieve its place in the Audible cavalcade of mystery stories. If there is a follow up, I won’t be following up!
September 17, 2021
This was entertaining.
I’ve never read anything by James Patterson but this seemed like a good introduction as an audiobook. Aaron Paul did a great job as the main character, and seeing how this counts as book 0.5 in the “Black Book” series, if I do decide to start the series with the main books, I will undoubtedly picture Aaron Paul’s voice in my head as I read them.
Anyway. Happy reading, everybody!
I’ve never read anything by James Patterson but this seemed like a good introduction as an audiobook. Aaron Paul did a great job as the main character, and seeing how this counts as book 0.5 in the “Black Book” series, if I do decide to start the series with the main books, I will undoubtedly picture Aaron Paul’s voice in my head as I read them.
Anyway. Happy reading, everybody!
December 23, 2021
A pretty crushable thriller set in Chicago. Also read by Aaron Paul and a slew of other great actors.
May 27, 2022
Fast read entertaining.
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