The Mystery Master - Duplicity: A Rick O’Shea Adventure

By: John Rayburn

Narrated by: Kristian Eros

Mystery Master Rick O’Shea is a different kind of detective, more aptly defined as a “seeker” and “finder”. He and his cohorts are brought in by the Romanian government to investigate two impalement murders tied to high-level intrigue in Transylvania. Is it a reprise of the fictional Dracula or a nefarious struggle to gain control of what may be a multi-billion-dollar invention, or both? Using their signature unconventional investigating methods, Rick, Helga, and Lute venture forth into the regions of Romania and England where Bram Stoker was inspired to write about the renowned Count of vampire fame. In doing so, the intrepid trio ultimately stumble upon the truth, identify the leader of a gang of murderous thugs, and discover his connection to the wife of the Romanian president.

©2018 John Rayburn (P)2019 Wordwooze Publishing

Not for everybody but I thoroughly enjoyed it

I bought this book after listening to The Orphans of New Lur which is also narrated by Kristian Eros.

I like the old-time, tongue-in-cheek, melodramatic adventures set in a modern world. The main characters are a cross between geocachers and detectives. The occasional violence has a swashbuckling feel. Light hearted and funny.

Eros somehow hits the amusing tone perfectly which I find delightful as it shows his range from Sci-fi fantasy to a mystery with old-time flavor.

duplicity

An entertaining mystery romance that I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of. I did not see that magnificent escape Rick made coming? Wow! The ending is sweetly cheesy. The narrator did a great job. I voluntarily listened to a free copy and am giving an honest review

Vampires. Why does it have to be vampires?

Few experiences can match the excitement and captivation of embarking on an adventure filled with fearless protagonists, hidden secrets, and timeless mysteries. "The Mystery Master - Duplicity: A Rick O’Shea Adventure" by John Rayburn, narrated by the talented Kristian Eros, is a literary gem that takes listeners on an exhilarating journey through suspense, intrigue, and revelation. We will delve deep into the heart of this thrilling audiobook, celebrating its unique blend of genres, unexpected plot twists, and delightful vampire elements.

From the outset, "The Mystery Master - Duplicity" introduces a cast of characters that defy convention within the realm of detective fiction. Rick O’Shea, our enigmatic and witty protagonist, along with his unique team of companions, defy traditional detective stereotypes. They're more like a fusion of geocachers and detectives, not that geocachers aren't actually low-rent detectives already; a refreshing departure from the norm that breathes new life into the genre.

Rick O’Shea himself strikes a perfect balance between vulnerability and brilliance, making him a character who effortlessly captures our hearts. His partners, Helga and Lute, each bring their distinct talents to the table, forming a trio that is both endearing and formidable. As the story unfolds, their teamwork, unwavering determination, and resilience in the face of daunting mysteries stand out.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of "The Mystery Master - Duplicity" is its adept ability to blend tension and suspense with moments of humor and levity. It's akin to savoring a gourmet meal with perfectly timed palate cleansers. The humor in the story, while slightly cheesy, is precisely what provides a welcome respite from the intense investigative sequences.

The narrative also thrives on unexpected escapes, keeping listeners perpetually on the edge of their seats. Every twist and turn is a surprise, and just when you think you've got it all figured out, Rayburn throws a curveball that leaves you astounded and eager for more. This rollercoaster of emotions is what makes "The Mystery Master - Duplicity" such a joy to experience.

Imagine a scenario where one man embodies Indiana Jones and Sherlock Holmes as well as, Nicolas Cage's character from "National Treasure". This is the intoxicating blend that "The Mystery Master - Duplicity" offers. It seamlessly interweaves elements of historical exploration, deductive reasoning, and treasure hunting, resulting in a narrative that is as captivating as it is entertaining.

The audacious quests, intricate puzzles, and relentless pursuit of ancient secrets transform this audiobook into a modern-day treasure hunt. Rick O’Shea and his companions take on challenges that would make Indiana Jones proud while employing the deductive skills that would earn Sherlock Holmes' admiration. The entire experience is imbued with the excitement reminiscent of National Treasure, which keeps listeners glued to their headphones.

Perhaps one of the most delightful surprises within "The Mystery Master - Duplicity" is its incorporation of vampire lore and history. While the story commences with impalement murders and high-level intrigue in Transylvania, it gradually immerses the audience into the realm of the undead. This innovative twist adds a layer of supernatural intrigue to the narrative, enhancing its depth and complexity.

The portrayal of the vampire elements in the story is a balanced blend of homage to Dracula's legends and an inventive take on the vampire mythos. Instead of relying on clichéd tropes, John Rayburn crafts a narrative that respects the classic lore while offering a fresh perspective. This infusion of the supernatural adds an additional layer of fascination, making "The Mystery Master - Duplicity" all the more engrossing.

No review of an audiobook is complete without acknowledging the pivotal role of the narrator. Kristian Eros, the voice behind "The Mystery Master - Duplicity," deserves special mention for his outstanding performance. Eros doesn't merely read; he performs an intricate act of storytelling.

His ability to breathe life into each character with distinct voices and personalities is a testament to his talent. Rick O’Shea's wit, Helga's strength, and Lute's eccentricity are all masterfully conveyed through Eros's vocal artistry. He effortlessly navigates shifts in tone and mood, guiding the listener through moments of tension, amusement, and wonder.

Eros's narration elevates the audiobook to new heights, immersing the listener in the heart of the adventure. With him as the storyteller, it feels as though you are right there beside Rick O’Shea and his team, experiencing their daring escapades. His performance enhances an already exceptional story, making it an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, "The Mystery Master - Duplicity: A Rick O’Shea Adventure" by John Rayburn, narrated by Kristian Eros, is a masterpiece in the world of audiobooks. With its genre-defying blend, surprising plot twists, and captivating vampire elements, it keeps listeners engrossed from start to finish. It's an emotional rollercoaster, a modern-day treasure hunt, and a journey into the supernatural—all flawlessly presented by Eros's narration.

This audiobook is a testament to the enduring magic of storytelling, reminding us of the joy of immersing ourselves in a world of mystery and adventure. If you're a fan of contemporary treasure hunts, unconventional detectives, and a hint of the supernatural, "The Mystery Master - Duplicity" should hold a prime spot in your audiobook collection. It's a thrilling, humorous, and utterly captivating adventure that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the escapades of Rick O’Shea and his extraordinary team. Do not miss the chance to embark on this exhilarating journey into the heart of Transylvania and beyond. Enjoy the listening experience!