Hard Row

A Deborah Knott Mystery

By: Margaret Maron

Narrated by: C. J. Critt

New York Times best-selling author Margaret Maron has garnered Edgar, Agatha, Anthony, Macavity, and American Mystery awards for her captivating series set in rural North Carolina.

When a local farmer - known for his severe treatment of migrant workers - turns up savagely murdered, Judge Deborah and her new Deputy Sheriff husband soon wade into a quagmire of exploitation. But as murders mushroom, the two uncover secrets that threaten both their community and their new life together.

©2007 Margaret Maron (P)2007 Recorded Books

Critic reviews

"Maron continues to produce an effective mix of mystery and domestic drama." ( Booklist)

Another great listen

Have been enjoying the series as the characters develop along with the narratives of the storyline. The various characters taking their turn at story development.

Very graphic

I enjoy the Judge Knott series and have listened to 13 books in the series. This one was very graphic in the description of the murder victim, was a little hard to listen to. Great narration and story. Enjoy the big Southern family dynamic.

Still enjoying this series ...

I absolutely love the author's descriptions of North Carolina and the people there. CJ Critt's narration is so enjoyable. The down home phrases and terms of endearment (Shug or Sug -- short for sugar) are particularly sweet for me as I heard them throughout my childhood. She gives Deborah's character a no nonsense manner, but with a definite soft hearted side, and I love her accent in the books. The books are mysteries, but they are also about Deborah's large (LARGE) family and their lives and you can't help but love them and get involved in what's going on in their lives. It can be confusing with many characters mentioned. If you go to the author's website, she has a family tree for this series. :) This particular mystery is quite good and I was unable to "solve" it until all was revealed. Highly recommend the series, but make sure you start at the beginning. JB

Loved farmer sayings/readings before chapters

Murder victim details/comparison were ok for me, but possibly too vivid for some readers/listeners. Deborah had too many “ah ha” moments in this book or maybe just me.

Strong story but graphic

The mystery and family centered story was great. I did find the graphic description of the murder somewhat difficult but still enjoyed the book.