Central Park West: A Crime Novel

Written by James Comey

Narrated by Cassandra Campbell

In the thrilling first crime novel from former FBI director James Comey, a murder investigation reveals deadly connections between high-ranking politicians and the mafia



When a years-long case against a powerful mobster finally cracks and an unimpeachable witness takes the stand, federal prosecutor Nora Carleton is looking forward to putting the defendant away for good. The mobster, though, has other plans. As the witness's testimony concludes, a note is passed to the prosecution offering up information into the assassination of a disgraced former New York governor, murdered in his penthouse apartment just days before. It's enough to blow the case wide open, and to send Nora into a high-stakes investigation of conspiracy, corruption, and danger.



Drawing from the author's decades in federal law enforcement, including his years in Manhattan as a mob prosecutor and later the chief federal prosecutor, Central Park West is a fast-paced legal thriller with an intriguing plot enriched by real-life details and experiences. That unique perspective gives the novel much of its allure, but it's the unforgettable characters, shocking twists, and courtroom scenes as authentic as they are dramatic that will leave listeners looking forward to more from this bold new talent in the genre.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Highbridge Company
• Release date: May 30, 2023
• ISBN: 9781696611756

James Comey

James Comey was raised in the New York area and attended the College of William and Mary and Chicago Law School. He worked as an assistant US attorney in New York, prosecuting organised crime figures, and worked on terrorism cases as an assistant US attorney in Virginia. He served as the seventh Director of the FBI from 2013 until May 9, 2017, when he was dismissed by President Donald Trump.

Reviews for Central Park West

[Guster McDonald · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Well, first I need to admit that I did not have high hopes for this one. Figuring that I could always pass on it later if it was really bad, I ventured on. I was wrong. This was a really enjoyable listen. Would have given it 5 stars but it did stall a bit near the conclusion, however, unlike so many reads that share that malady, I felt like the story refocused and got back on track for the ending. I enjoyed the characters, the narration was solid and I enjoy a lot of detail when someone knows their subject and Comey definitely knows his subject. The story features a couple of female federal prosecutors and their dogged investigator, politicians, mob characters and the reasons that people have to justify criminal behavior. I was very entertained and really surprised/pleased with Comey's treatment of the female characters in the story. Recommended

[Haley Childs · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Loved it. Intriguing and good character development. Funny. Knows law and procedural well.
Dialogue lumpy at times. Impressive first book for an FBI guy?!
Westport next!

[B4iwascrzy · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC audiobook.

Central Park West is a gripping crime novel that explores the dark side of politics and the mafia in New York City. Former FBI director James Comey, who has a wealth of experience in law enforcement and national security, delivers a fast-paced and realistic story that keeps the listener on the edge of their seat.

The protagonist is Nora Carleton, a federal prosecutor who has been working on a case against a powerful mobster for years. She finally has a star witness: an insider who can testify against the defendant and put him away for good. But before she can make her move, she receives a shocking revelation: someone has killed a disgraced former governor, who was involved in a scandal with the mobster. The murder seems unrelated to the trial, but Nora soon discovers that there is more to it than meets the eye.

Nora decides to investigate the connection between the governor's death and her own case, hoping to find out who is behind it and why. She uncovers a web of conspiracy, corruption, and danger that reaches high levels of government and involves powerful allies and enemies. She also faces personal challenges as she tries to balance her career with her family life.

Central Park West is not only a thrilling legal thriller, but also a compelling psychological drama that explores themes such as justice, loyalty, morality, and truth. Comey draws from his own experiences as an FBI director and a mob prosecutor to create authentic and vivid characters that are both relatable and complex. He also uses real-life details and events to make his story more realistic and relevant.

The audiobook is narrated by Cassandra Campbell, who does an excellent job of bringing Nora's voice to life. She conveys Nora's emotions, thoughts, and motivations with skill and nuance. She also captures the tone and atmosphere of New York City with her voice acting.

Central Park West is a debut novel by James Comey that announces him as one of the most promising new voices in crime fiction. It is an audiobook that will keep you hooked from start to finish with its fast-paced plot twists, realistic dialogue, and compelling characters. If you are looking for an audiobook that will keep you entertained and informed at the same time, look no further than Central Park West by James Comey.

[Steven Jay · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It was surprising to realize who the author was and Why he is so famous. I assumed he could great briefs but not a best selling novel.
Book has great writing, lots of twists and turns and a surprising ending. I cant wait for his next book.

[Anna Zell · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed the characters and their interplay. Loved that there were several non-traditional relationships.

[MyNameIsName · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Excellent book, kept me guessing and engaged the whole time