
Member Reviews

J. D. Robb never disappoints! This is my second visit with Lieutenant Eve Dallas this year, and the ending of this one is why it is another 5 star read!
This time around, Eve and her partner, Detective Delia Peabody, are investigating a series of murders based on famous paintings. As always, Eve and her team work diligently to bring the suspect to justice.
As always, I enjoyed seeing all of my favorite characters from the series. It’s like visiting family when I get a new Eve Dallas book.
The ending of this one was not what I was expecting! After 61 books, every entry is still different. My favorite part of the book is always when Eve interrogates the suspect. This one is no different. Once Eve put her plan in motion, the ending was incredible! I didn’t see it coming.
The audiobook is amazing as always. Susan Ericksen does a wonderful job bringing the characters to life. It is a fantastic listening experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the chance to listen to this one. I absolutely love this series, and I cannot wait to read more. This one is out now!

This was such a good book. I loved the story and the writing so much. The characters were great and the story flowed smoothly. Will definitely read more books by this author in the future

Familiarity breeds deeper infatuation, at least in this reader's heart. Framed in Death provides standard J.D. Robb fare: a psychotic killer, brilliant police investigatory skills by Eve Dallas and her colleagues, a cat who thinks he owns the place (that's redundant, I know), and of course, the source of my perennial, all-consuming infatuation, Roarke. Shouldn't there be some kind of frequent reader policy in place, like: "Read ten In Death titles and bring home Roarke for a week"? Please?! For new readers: he's richer than God, gorgeous, intelligent, multi-lingual, knowledgeable about music, art, etc., (particularly helpful in this volume), provides great food and greater coffee whenever needed, picks and provides the perfect wardrobe choices, and, oh yes, he's a fantastic lover. Five stars, as always.

Framed In Death is the 61st book and an excellent addition in J.D. Robb's "In Death" series.
In 2061, Lieutenant Eve Dallas heads the New York City Homicide team. She is married to Roarke, a gorgeous wealthy Irish entrepreneur.
In this story she has to find a formidable killer who recreates scenes from a famous painting with each victim. A unique storyline that was difficult to stop listening to.
With each and every "In Death" book I love re-visiting all of the characters that I have come to know and care about.
Excellent narration, once again, by Susan Ericksen.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an advance copy of this audiobook.

"Framed in Death" by J.D. Robb is an exceptionally captivating story that immediately draws the reader in from the very first page, refusing to let go until the very last word. The writing is outstanding, creating a vivid and immersive world for the reader to explore. Moreover, the narrator's performance is truly remarkable; they possess a rare talent for breathing life into the characters and plot, making the listening experience not just enjoyable, but completely immersive and unforgettable.

I love Nora Roberts and JD Robb, I have read her books since her first book "Irish Thoroughbred" in 1981. When she started the "In Death" series, I was hesitant, the first one was a hard topic to deal with, but I stuck with it and now they are my favorite books. to read. I can sincerely say i have read the entire series at least four times over.
"Framed in Death" starts with an artist who is angry that the art world doesn't recognize his brilliance and decides to copy the great works of art, dressing the models up in replica outfits, and then kills them and poses them outside peoples homes. He's not a very nice guy.
All the regular "In Death" characters are present in this book, there is the love and respect between Rourke and Eve and the added adventure of Peabody, McNabb, Mavis and her family all move into their mansion/duplex together. I love how Eve uses every one around her and all the resources avaiable to her to solve this crime, However, it isn't over once the crime is solved, there is a quick twist you see coming, and enjoy seeing it foiled.
The story is captivating, however, the book has a similarity to a previous book "Portrait In Death." In that book, characters were killed off to steal their 'light,' and in "Framed in Death" once again, the light is part of the reason characters are being killed. Since there are over 60 In Death books, that is bound to happen.
I listened to the audio book, read by Susan Erikson, and I have to say, i love her reading style. She adds something to all the books she reads, so much so that I have searched for books specifically read by her.
Once again, JD Robb/Nora Roberts delivers a good book, with good story line and strong characters.

I waited a bit before reviewing this audio book, and honestly, I cannot remember anything about it. I suppose that says something about the book. Or my memory.
Thank you netgalley for the prerelease audio book.

Another killer strikes in the city Lt. Eve Dallas calls home, so you know what that means, she's on the case! But it's not just her, it's also her elite team of police employees as well as her wealthy, and brilliant, husband Roarke. This killer believes he's got what it takes to be an artist remembered, and he will kill to make that happen. But Eve Dallas and her crew aim to stop this psycho artist, and that's just what you will read about in Framed In Death, a stellar addition to the In Death series, one of my top favorites!
The best part of this book was attempting to guess the artwork from Eve Dallas's description before she called her husband Roarke and got the answer, haha! I believe that I got all but one correct.
I recommend this to any Eve Dallas fan, this is a wonderful addition you don't want to miss! As always Susan Ericksen's narration is superb! Pick up this audiobook today!

Framed in Death delivers another easy-to-get-into case for Eve Dallas and her partner Peabody. I liked the setup right away—murders staged as famous works of art—and the crime scene details were vivid and pulled me in. Eve’s determination keeps the story moving, while Peabody adds the right mix of balance and humor. Their partnership is one of the best parts of the series. The story is entertaining and kept me listening, though it doesn’t really push new ground.
The art-themed murders give the book a cinematic edge, perfect for readers who want a fast-moving, character-driven thriller without a steep learning curve. I listened to the audiobook, and the narration made it even easier to stay immersed in the case.
Overall, I’d put this one at 3.5 stars. Not a standout, but definitely solid—an enjoyable listen (or read) for fans who like the steady rhythm of this series and a reliable mystery. Framed in Death was my first book in this long-running series, and it didn’t matter at all that I didn’t start at the beginning—the mystery, police procedural, and near-future NYC setting made it easy to jump right in.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advance listening copy. Framed in Death released September 2, 2025.

Framed in Death: 🖼️🎨💀
Thank you @stmartinspress @macmillan.audio for my gifted copy. #MacAudio2025 #FramedInDeath #JDRobb #StMartinsPress
Honestly, J.D. Robb dropped this one just in time for Halloween because it’s giving off Halloween vibes. Someone is killing LC (licensed companions) and posing them as famous paintings. I just see Halloween costumes for sure. It gave the spookiest vibes, and it was perfect to cozy up to.
As always, you have to read these in order. You could probably start around 50 and go, but y’all, this is #61. The foundation has been set so long ago and you’ll get confused on why we’re all so excited for Peabody and why everyone (including me) makes a little smirk when we find out it’s a Rouke security system!
This was a wild one to be honest. I didn’t know if Dallas and crew were going to crack this one in time. The details to have this play out was so thorough and well thought out. I loved when the thumb finally went off and all the puzzle pieces started coming together! It was so satisfying.
The audio is, as always, done by the amazing Susan Ericksen. Susan IS Eve Dallas, there’s no question. Peabody, Roarke, and even Mira were back and I don’t think I’d ever just read an Eve Dallas book without listening as well because of Susan Ericksen.
Overall, another amazing read from the In Death series. Framed is out now! I cannot wait to check out Stolen in Death, which is out in Feb.
Also, peep the gallery with the other In Death books which is the inside booksleeve!
QOTD: Weekend plans or weekend reads?

JD Robb/Nora Roberts is my all time favorite author. I started out reading these books because my grandmother loved her books. I now have read every single Nora Roberts novels as well as her JD Robb books. I don’t know how she hasn’t run out of ideas by now. She seriously could write any thing and I’d read it!
Framed in Death was no different than her normal novels. It’s a 5-star listen with the works written and spoken. This was a great one… we get a few more glimpses into Detective Eve Dallas’s life. I love those glimpses. I might have actually gotten teary-eyed a bit in a few areas. That’s what this author does… she makes you feel and think. Heck, I do miss some of those older books where her readers got to learn about various careers. I loved the lady that did glasswork.
If she continues to write the books, I’ll read (preferably listen) to them all!! The narrator, Brittany Presley, she’s the best!! It only makes sense to have the best narrator work with the best author. This is THE team! The duo is perfection!!

This was fairly well done, basically your typical police-procedural, but the characters were done a bit better than average on this front. A bit livelier, more personality, than I tend to see, that kept me listening.
The case itself isn’t original—I’ve read a few like this before, but still intriguing if you’re into crime and twisted serial unalivers.
Set in NYC.
Serial k!ller on the loose.
Art as a major theme, classical, mainly.
Snobbish minor characters.
Futuristic setting, yet no real world-building appeared in this one.
Overall:
Not a quick, mindless listen at all—a fun read with some substance and a few twists that set it apart from others in its genre. 4 stars.
🎧 Audio:
Great audio, decent narration + overall smooth sound quality.
#netgalley

Rating: 4.5/5
I received a gifted book for my honest opinion.
I was introduced to the world of Eve Dallas, Roarke, Peabody, and the rest of this unforgettable cast only a few years ago, and ever since, I’ve been hooked. J.D. Robb has such a talent for weaving futuristic police procedurals with sharp mystery, emotional depth, and a touch of romance—and Framed in Death is no exception.
Set in September 2061, Lieutenant Eve Dallas is called to a gallery where an artist’s desire for recognition has spiraled into something much darker. Convinced his work isn’t getting the attention it deserves, he’s determined to make his name unforgettable—even if that means blood will be spilled. It’s up to Eve to step into his twisted mind and stop him before he claims more lives.
Like the rest of the In Death series, this book delivers an intriguing plot, smart police work, and layered character interactions that keep the pages turning. I loved that this installment highlighted the art world—its beauty, creativity, and allure—but also its underbelly of entitlement, wealth, and ego. The descriptions of the artwork were so vivid, I could easily picture each piece (separate from the gruesome crime scenes!).
Eve’s ability to crawl inside a killer’s thoughts remains one of my favorite aspects of the series. It’s not just about solving the crime for her—it’s about honoring the victims and understanding the “why.” And as always, the dynamic between Eve, Roarke, and Peabody brings humor, heart, and balance to the darker moments.
I also listened to the audiobook, and Susan Ericksen once again brought the cast to life beautifully. Each character had a distinct voice, layered with emotion, making the story even more immersive.
Fast-paced, twisty, and compelling, Framed in Death is another strong addition to the series. If you love police procedurals with heart, complex mysteries, and characters that feel like family, this one is a must-read.
I want to thank NetGalley, SMP and Macmillan audio for the opportunity to review this book.

J.D. Robb it’s out of the park with this one. Might be one on my favorites. The narrator does a great job with the voices. She is able to take each character and make them unique.

Framed in Death by J D Robb
In Death series #61. Futuristic police procedural. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the series because of the recurring regular characters.
A body is found, dressed and posed as a famous painting outside an art gallery in New York and Lt. Eve Dallas and her team are called in to investigate. A second body the next day and a different painting gives them the evidence they need to trace and clues to follow to track down the killer.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Susan Ericksen who does the full series. The performance includes specific distinct voices for many of the main characters with Eve’s emotions of anger and determination coming through clearly. Roarke’s accent and Peobody’s voice help bring the familiar through for anyone following this series.
I did listen at 1.5 and above to more closely match local conversation speed.
While New York 2061 is not my local environment, nor the murder aspect, it still feels like coming home when reading these books. It’s always fun to revisit with characters we’ve come to know and love.
The mysteries are always well written as Eve walks through the mind of the killer before she actually knows who it is. The supporting characters, including advanced technology make the story absorbing and thrilling.
Another successful case I was able to follow and be amazed at not only the investigation but the writing as well.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio

J.D. Robb’s Framed in Death is a fantastic addition to the “In Death” series! As with all of the previous installments, it features futuristic New York City detective Eve Dallas and her Irish billionaire husband Roarke. This time the murder victim is an elaborately costumed woman who is posed to resemble the model of a long-ago Dutch master. Eve and her team of talented detectives won’t give up until all potential victims are identified and protected, justice is obtained, and the murderer is locked behind bars.
I remember listening to the first audio recording of the series on cassette tapes back in 1995! Despite the number of books in the series, the author consistently keeps the series fresh and the murders unique. As always, narrative Susan Ericksen did an amazing job providing unique voices for all the characters and providing urgency and emotion in all the right places. I highly recommend this audiobook and the entire series, especially if you are looking for a new murder mystery series to glom onto. Brava!

Framed in Death continues the In Death series and, honestly, JD Robb can do no wrong with these books!! I just love them! We get the usual cameos from the side characters-all her cops, McNabb, Feeney, Mira, Mavis and family, etc. I always look forward to seeing them all. The plot focuses on uncovering the mystery of who "The Artist" is so they can stop him.
You really see police work in progress in this one-she has the whole team chasing leads and working to uncover this killer's identity. She even ropes in Nadine and the news! I also loved that there was the inclusion of post arrest police work-getting the killer in the interview room and getting him to confess. Its always such an interesting process with Dallas! Overall, Framed in Death was another perfect installment of the series and kept me listening non stop.
The audiobook is fantastic! Susan Erickson is the ultimate narrator. Each voice is unique and perfect. I just can't express how much I have loved these audiobooks. She has distinct voices for each character and you know who is speaking just by her voice.

He takes their lives to fuel his art
In 2061 New York City an artist, frustrated by not having his talent be recognized or appreciated as he feels is his due, has found the perfect way in which to make his mark on the art world. He will recreate the portraits of famous masters, using contemporary street-level Licensed Companions to stand in as his models. He is meticulous in his planning, sourcing fabrics, paints and even brushes identical in quality and production to those used in earlier times. Once done with the services of the LC's, he kills them and deposits their posed bodies near the homes and galleries of the art dealers who have refused to acknowledge his genius. He believes that his art is worth the sacrifice of the lives of these unimportant sex workers, but Lieutenant Eve Dallas of the NYPSD begs to differ. She and her team of homicide detectives are determined to find justice for the victims and hunt down the person on a showy killing spree before more lives are lost. Her target has both money and influence, but then again so does Dallas...and she will take down anyone who stands in the way of her investigation.
It is hard to believe but this is the 61st entry in the "In Death" series featuring Lt. Eve Dallas and her wealthy husband Roarke, and it is a highly entertaining addition to the preceding stories. Dallas is as always shrewd, tough and hyper-focused on bringing down those who break the law (even pickpockets aren't safe from her observant gaze), while Roarke continues to provide love and support as she needs it, including using his skills and contacts as her "civilian consultant" when he can get things done more expeditiously than she can using official channels. The usual supporting cast is here as well, her second in command Peabody, her best friend Mavis, and the rest, providing humor and further expansion of the personal lives each leads, with Peabody, Mavis and their partners enjoying the new house they share. The killer, who shares in the narration of the story, is creepy and evil and it is highly enjoyable to see Dallas painstakingly assemble the evidence she needs to first identify and then take down the serial killer. This is the first time I have listened to a Dallas novel as an audiobook rather than reading it, and I was quite impressed with narrator Susan Ericksen's skills in bringing the voices of the characters I know so well to life. Fans of the series will definitely enjoy Framed in Death (which while it can be read as a standalone will be easier for those who have read some of the preceding titles to understand the characters, their backstories and relationships), as will readers of Nora Roberts (of course, as she and J. D. Robb are one and the same), Lisa Gardner and Tess Gerritsen. My thanks to Macmillan Audio for allowing me access to the audio version of the novel in exchange for my honest review.

I really love this series. It’s full of heart with the right amount of suspense and angst about characters that you’ll grow to care for and wonder about like old friends. The writing drew me in from the start as Robb balanced precisely placed humour into her tale to offset the more serious undertones of the story. Robb cleverly interweaves their interpersonal lives with the work of being a detective which further heightens the intrigue of the murders. Book 61 of the “In Death” series leaves me feeling ever more invested in the lives of each of the main characters, wanting to know more.
Random reflections about the ‘In Death’ series:
- Eve Dallas’ musings about why things are named the way they are or how something works are brilliant and thoughtful and spot-on.
- Jenkinson’s ties: sorry Dallas, the ties need to stay!
- Peabody: is there a better friend and partner out there?!
- The camaraderie between all the officers in the bullpen, including the psychologist and higher ups.
- Roarke: with his Irish accent, steady support, and generous spirit is the book boyfriend I never knew I always needed.
One side effect of listening to this series on audiobook is that if ever I’m out and about and I hear Susan Ericksen’s voice in real life, I’ll more than likely turn to her and ask Dallas how she’s doing. I’ve so enjoyed @susanericken narration style that to me, she IS Eve Dallas.

A crazy artist up against the awesome Lt. Dallas! Another enjoyable story to add to the highly addictive In Death series. Fun times visiting with a lot of the charming side characters too.
Susan Ericksen is the voice of this series. I am always in awe of her range of voices. It makes listening to a book very enjoyable!