Livia Lone

A Livia Lone Novel, Book 1

By: Barry Eisler

Narrated by: Barry Eisler

Length: 10 hrs and 15 mins

Publisher's summary

“An absolutely first-rate thriller.”—New York Times Book Review

Seattle PD sex-crimes detective Livia Lone knows the monsters she hunts. Sold by her Thai parents along with her little sister, Nason; abused by the men who trafficked them; marooned in America...the only thing that kept Livia alive as a teenager was her determination to find Nason.

Livia has never stopped looking. And she copes with her failure to protect her sister by doing everything she can to put predators in prison.

Or, when that fails, by putting them in the ground.

But when a fresh lead offers new hope of finding Nason and the men who trafficked them both, Livia will have to go beyond just being a cop. Beyond even being a vigilante. She’ll have to relive the horrors of the past. Take on one of the most powerful men in the US government. And uncover a conspiracy of almost unimaginable evil.

In every way, it’s an unfair fight. But Livia has two advantages: her unending love for Nason—

And a lifelong lust for vengeance.

©2016 Barry Eisler (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Critic reviews

"Author Barry Eisler narrates his own work with the skill of a professional voice actor.... He never strains credulity as Livia transitions from child victim to confident woman and avenging angel for the abused. Livia's male abusers—especially her stepfather—practically hiss with vileness, like coiled snakes. When young Livia learns jujutsu and starts fighting back, listeners will share her visceral catharsis and newfound empowerment." (AudioFile)

Wishing Livia was real...

To start, I really like Eisler's work... particularly when he focuses on troubled vigilante protagonists who are driven to seek justice (his forays into "political" thrillers are not quite as strong).

I had a hard time putting this book down. It was disturbing and satisfying at the same time. You hate everyone you are supposed to hate and you don't feel even a twinge of guilt when Livia does "bad" things. The story is based on disgusting and disturbing activities that really happen, and, while Livia was a survivor, I suspect she exists only in this fiction: too bad.

It is suspenseful, and the story unfolds with "then" and "now" sections, which gradually come together at the end - this was really well done. You become fully immersed in Livia's world and at some points you might find yourself wanting join in with Livia as she doles out some justice.

The narration is good (Eisler narrates his own works and is decent at it, although you can tell it is not his primary occupation). There is some swearing and sex (not overly graphic but it is violent) and the premise behind the entire story is mature.

I will be buying any other Eisler books when they come out.

WOW!!!

It's been a long time since I yelled at characters in a book. This book was fantastic. Get 'em Livia!!

Another outstanding Eisler character and story

What made the experience of listening to Livia Lone the most enjoyable?

Barry Eislers's narration. It was a treat to have the book read by the author, who obviously cares deeply about conveying every aspect of his characters to the "reader." What a boon it is that Eisler is an incredible author AND narrator!

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

Yes because while I rooted for Livia, I was not always sure where her road was taking her.

What does Barry Eisler bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Listening to him was like watching a movie while driving, cooking etc. He gave birth to the characters so I believe I got to know them as he intended, through the richness of his narration, e.g. HIS voice, inflections, pauses, etc.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I was moved by the human suffering and reminded that human trafficking goes on because of the evil that feeds it. I was also reminded how senselessly mean some people can be and how difficult it can be for immigrant children in school. Conversely, I was also heartened by the goodness and kindness of others.

Any additional comments?

As always, I learn a lot when I read an Eilser novel and this book did not disappoint.

Amazing!

A GREAT book. Tough to listen to graphic scenes in some spots, but it's just as much as the situation calls for- nothing gratuitous. Amazing story and, sadly, one that is an everyday occurrence here in the good ol' USA. Would love to see this character made into a series!

Excellent story, female protagonist, author narrated

This excellent story line features female protagonist Livia Lone, a Thai child trafficked to the US. She is adopted by a totally uncaring woman and her sexual predator husband. The story line is propelled by Livia's separation from her sister who was also brought over. Livia grows up to be a formidable woman continuing to seek justice.
Barry Eisler does a great job narrating his novel. I never once thought about the narration rather than the story. That's the mark of good narration for me!
I hope Eisler will bring back Livia Lone for more books. She is an intriguing character and Eisler handles the topic of child trafficking without making it unbearable to hear.

This is a gripping story of a tortured young life

The story was well read and well written. There are some difficult details within the story, but the result and ending of the story make it worth it.

Hands Down my Favorite Book of the Year

I keep thinking about this book. From the very first page I knew I was in trouble because I knew I would never be able to put the book down. I would listen to it in my car, then read it at work, then in my car again, and then at home. It was just that good. The story moves fast and it gets to the point. The action scenes are incredible and Barry Eisler gives everything just the perfect amount of detail. Obviously I loved Livia Lone's character and the story line. I just don't see how anyone couldn't like this book. I would and plan to read this book again in the future. Can't wait for book two.

chilling, and dark, Revenge

one of his better series , and not for the light-hearted if you like True Crime thus the book is for you. lacks the sophistication of the John rain series what makes up for it in-store development. I was practically traumatized by this book I may need therapy.

Brutal

I am a huge fan of the John Rain series, and if you are ok with that and wanted a more brutal story that will make you cry then this is for you. But be prepared for nightmares.

Haunting

I love the Rain series, but Eisler has hit new heights with this searing story. This is one that will stick with you