A Is for Alibi

A Kinsey Millhone Mystery

By: Sue Grafton

Narrated by: Mary Peiffer

When Laurence Fife was murdered, few mourned his passing. Plenty of people had reason to want him dead. But the police thought his wife Nikki--with motive, access and opportunity--was the #1 suspect. The jury thought so too.

Eight years later and out on parole, Nikki hires Kinsey Millhone, a gutsy P.I., to find the read killer. The trail is cold but Kinsey finds a lead. It brings her face-to-face with the murderer.

This is the first in the popular series featuring California investigator Kinsey Millhone. She's 32, twice divorced, no kids, an ex-cop who likes her work... and who works strictly alone.©1982 Sue Grafton; (P)1993 Books on Tape

The first in a great series and one of the best.

Great beginning to a wonderful series. It is obviously an older recording as the editing is not as smooth as later books. Mary Peiffer is great as Kinsey and is fluid at doing the other character voices. The story is a fresh perspective on the classic detective genre and still reads fresh 36 years later. If you are looking for a series that will give you hours of enjoyment start here. Sadly, the Alphabet ends with Y.

Fun trip back in time

I was 16 years old when this book was published, so I remember the ‘80s. No cell phones or personal computers and motel rooms for less than 20 dollars! I really like Kinsey Millhone character and share some of her outlooks on life and relationships, having chosen to remain single myself after a divorce and a couple failed serious relationships. I suspect she’ll eventually find her match, though. I also love the descriptions of Southern California, as I grew up there. I’ll definitely be continuing with the series!

Couldn't Finish

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

I would if they cared more for plot than character

What do you think your next listen will be?

Something set in the 19th century

What three words best describe Mary Peiffer’s voice?

Hard-edged but loose

Did A is for Alibi inspire you to do anything?

Yes; I believe I will stick with lighter fare like Janet Evanovich and Lisa Lutz

Any additional comments?

I had to quit listening because I couldn't believe she had sex with someone she thought might be dangerous. Idiot.

Story good - Narration robotic

The story was well written for a first book. The narrator was very robotic. Worth the listen during a long drive.

Very good story narration left much to be desired.

Narrator did not make a clear enough distinction between various characters. Especially the male voices.