The Neon Rain is the first book in the Dave Robicheaux series written by James Lee Burke. Published in 1987, it introduces readers to the complex and compelling character of Dave Robicheaux, a detective with the New Orleans Police Department.

Set in the vibrant and atmospheric city of New Orleans, the story follows Robicheaux as he investigates a series of brutal murders. The novel begins with Robicheaux encountering a young prostitute named Kelly, who is later found dead. This event sets off a chain of events that leads Robicheaux into the dark underbelly of the city, where he uncovers corruption, drug trafficking, and a dangerous criminal syndicate.

As Robicheaux delves deeper into the case, he becomes entangled with powerful and influential figures who will stop at nothing to protect their interests. Along the way, he encounters various characters, including his old friend and former police officer Cletus Purcel, as well as mobsters and corrupt politicians. The investigation takes Robicheaux from the streets of New Orleans to the swamps of Louisiana, adding an element of Southern Gothic to the narrative.

Throughout the book, Burke’s vivid descriptions bring the setting to life, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of New Orleans. The author’s lyrical prose captures both the beauty and decay of the city, creating a rich backdrop for the story.

One of the central themes explored in The Neon Rain is redemption. Robicheaux is haunted by his past as an alcoholic and struggles with his own demons while trying to solve the case. His journey towards redemption is intertwined with his pursuit of justice, making him a complex and relatable protagonist.

Burke’s writing style combines elements of crime fiction with literary sensibilities. He delves into deep introspection and explores moral dilemmas faced by his characters. The narrative is filled with social commentary on issues such as racism, poverty, and the abuse of power.

The Neon Rain received critical acclaim upon its release and established James Lee Burke as a prominent voice in the crime fiction genre. The book’s success led to a long-running series featuring Dave Robicheaux, with each subsequent installment delving further into the character’s personal and professional struggles.

In conclusion, The Neon Rain is a gripping and atmospheric crime novel that introduces readers to the complex world of Dave Robicheaux. Through its compelling narrative and vivid setting, the book explores themes of redemption, corruption, and the pursuit of justice. James Lee Burke’s masterful storytelling and rich characterization make this first installment in the Dave Robicheaux series a must-read for fans of crime fiction.

• The Neon Rain

• A Dave Robicheaux Novel
• By: James Lee Burke
• Narrated by: Will Patton

New York Times bestselling author James Lee Burke’s Dave Robicheaux novel begins with this tough first entry in the series.
In The Neon Rain, Detective Robicheaux retrieves the body of a prostitute from a cove in New Orleans and discovers that no one, not even the law, cares about a dead prostitute.

More mayhem? Listen to more James Lee Burke’s Dave Robicheaux thriller.

I’ve listened to all of Dave Robichaux’s other novels on Audible and am SO excited to see this early release. COURSE the plot, the characters, the text – is amazing. I agree with the other reviewers here – Will Patton is the perfect storyteller. Listening to this book, I really forgot that I was just hearing a man’s voice. The Dave R/James Lee Burke/Will Patton combo is still my FAVORITE listen from Audible.

I could only hear Will Patton read James Lee Burke. I tried his other narrator and couldn’t get past the first disc. Will Patton IS Dave and Clete and Helen, and all the rest as he reads Burke’s novel. No one else can hold the candle – I’ll have to read Jolie Blon’s Bounce for myself – unfortunately Will Patton didn’t read that either!

I’ve read this book already, but when I found it available in an unabridged format with a reading by Will Patton, I downloaded it right away. I avoid Mark Hammer’s narratives – I don’t care about his style. Dave Robicheaux’s voice IS Will Patton. Burke is one of my favorite writers, and I love listening as well as reading.

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