THE SEAGULL Vera Stanhope, Book 8

Janine Birkett's marvelous narration enhances this riveting mystery, part of the Vera Stanhope series, set on the majestic northeast coast of England. Detective Inspector Stanhope is well rendered, as are the story's secondary characters. Descriptions of the locale are equally appealing. When Stanhope presents a talk at the local prison, she's waylaid by crooked ex-cop John Brace. His raspy voice sounds genuine as he promises her information about a long-unsolved murder if she helps his troubled daughter. Listeners will appreciate Birkett's handling of the dry humor, particularly Stanhope's. Birkett's portrayal of the strong personality of elderly Mrs. Marshall intensifies the story's conclusion. S.G.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2017]