Aurelio Zen: Dead Lagoon

By: Michael Dibdin

Narrated by: Cameron Stewart

Aurelio Zen returns to his native Venice to investigate the disappearance of a rich American resident but he soon learns that, amid the hazy light and shifting waters of the lagoon, nothing is what it seems. As Zen is drawn deeper into the complex and ambiguous mysteries surrounding the discovery of a skeletal corpse on an ossuary island in the north lagoon, he is also forced to confront a series of disturbing revelations about his own life.

©1994 Michael Dibdin (P)2014 Audible, Inc.

I miss Michael Kitchen...

Cameron Stewart did well enough, except for the elderly portrayals—his falsetto is godawful. The story itself is interesting, as Zen returns to ancestral home, runs into old acquaintances, solves a couple mysteries, and makes new political enemies. Unfortunately, it runs out of steam towards the end, and seems like its main purpose is to set up following novels. I’ll move onto the next Zen book, and really hope this was a one-off.

The past is another country, you can only visit.

I am sure I wrote a review earlier. This is one of Michael Dibdin best. Aurelio returns to Venice on a little detour to what perhaps he should be doing. Things have changed and although Aurelio gets to the root of it all, he isn't wanted. He loses, he wins, he is nowhere. Just goes to show you can't go back, it isn't there anymore. This book puts it so nicely. As Aurelio puts it at the end of the book speaking to some tourist, "I'm sorry, I can't help you, I'm a visitor here myself", or something like that. Cameron Stewart isn't Michael Kitchen, but does an adequate job. Love the book, love the series. Worth the listen too.

Language is great

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

yes the story is good and the ability of the author to communcate with exciting vivid language is excellent.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

The plt was not up front, Therefore the plot was a surprise.

Which scene was your favorite?

The description of who people and places were were all enthralling.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I read this book mostly because of the language.

Any additional comments?

It is a must read.

interesting but not great

not a super compelling story or characters but it kept my interest (just). probably would recommend something else.

Entertaining Story.

I enjoyed the story and the character "Zen". I did have issues with the performer's rendition of female voices. He manages male voices very well with each character having a distinct voice of his own, but the female vocalizations are reminiscent of a vaudeville act or a British pantomime male character who is obviously playing a female. It is too bad as it does detract from the enjoyment of the audio novel.