Description
Langston Brown is running out of time and options for clearing his name and escaping death row. Wrongfully convicted of the gruesome Mother’s Day Massacre, he prepares to face his death. His final hope for salvation lies with his daughter, Liza, an artist who dreamed of a life of music and song but left the prestigious Juilliard School to pursue a law degree with the intention of clearing her father’s name. Just as she nears success, it’s announced that Langston will be put to death in thirty days. In a desperate bid to find freedom for her father, Liza enlists the help of Eli Stone, a jazz-club owner she met at the classic Five Points venue, The Roz. Devastated by the tragic loss of his wife, Eli is trying to find solace by reviving the club… while also wrestling with the longing to join her in death. Everyone has a dream that might come true―but as the dark shadows of the past converge, could Langston, Eli, and Liza be facing a danger that could shatter those dreams forever? Inspired by the atmospheric poetry of Langston Hughes and set in the heart of Denver’s black community, this gripping crime novel pits three characters in a race against time to thwart a gross miscarriage of justice… with deadly consequences.
Details
- Rating: ☆☆☆.5
- By: Robert Justice
- Narrated by: J.D. Jackson
- Length: 7 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged Audiobook
- Release date: 12-07-21
- Publisher: Dreamscape Media, LLC
They Can’t Take Your Name explores the topics of racism and the American justice system. What makes this a bit unique is that for the most part all of the characters are African American, or as the book refers to them, dark-skinned.
This is narrated beautifully. However, yes, however is following closely behind, I’m not sure the story would have held my attention if I wasn’t listening to it.
The plot, though containing an important topic, felt a little bit here and there at times. It was interesting but didn’t develop to the point I felt terribly connected to the characters or story until quite late.
Then, as the story picked up speed, something happened that felt completely out of character and unbelievable. Interesting? Sure. But the action didn’t fit the character, or for that matter, any semi-sane character.
Though I want to enthusiastically root for the message behind this book, it only partially worked for me.
My Concerns
I didn’t feel as connected to the major players as I’d like to have been and the plot didn’t feel tight. I would have liked it to focus deeper on one aspect or the other. But by attempting to cover so much, it ended up a little watered down.
Final Thoughts
It wasn’t difficult to listen to this story. I was interested and there is a mystery woven throughout the pages. I hate to think corruption is to this degree but, unfortunately, it’s a worthwhile topic to bring to our awareness.
I’d say give this a try, especially as an audiobook.
My thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to this audiotape and review it without any stipulations.
Rating 3.5 Stars
About the Author
Robert Justice is a Denver native. His first novel, They Can’t Take Your Name, was named a runner up for the 2020 Sister’s in Crime Eleanor Taylor Bland Award. He believes that together we can right wrongful convictions.
If you purchase through the links in this post, I may earn a small commission. This helps support Pick a Good Book and allows us to continue bringing you great content.
20% Off!
French Press Without The Mess.
Clean. Smooth. Delicious!
Simpli Press
from: Simpli Press Coffee
