UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Narrator Alexander James convincingly presents this odd and creepy short mystery. Eugene, an 82-year-old serial killer, is hitchhiking under a boiling Texas sun, searching for his fiftieth victim. James's raspy voice harshly recounts Eugene's plan to make sure everyone knows that he "helped" his victims escape difficult lives. Listeners will also learn that Eugene still laments his twenty-fifth victim, the one who got away. Along comes kind, generous Laura, who picks him up because he reminds her of her beloved granddad. James skillfully portrays her unselfish personality and sense of humor (much needed in this story). A you-are-there feel is created by James's impressive rendering of thoughts and graphic descriptions of heat, smells, and emotion. Laura's thoughtfulness is surprising--until the astonishing final twist. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2019]