NOCTURNE

Jeffery Deaver emerges as a master of the classic short story, bolstered by a bevy of ace readers in this collection of "twisted tales." With one exception, "All the World's a Stage," which comes off as sophomoric mock-Elizabethan prattle, this collection features intelligent, well-crafted fiction. Story lines, characters, and high stakes are melded with gripping, unexpected conclusions voiced by strong character actors. Deaver echoes O. Henry now and then when using pathos and coincidence; Poe, Hitchcock, and King when things turn dark and rife with retribution. High production values and committed, gifted actors make this an audiobook sure to remain in your collection. D.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 04]