THE MYSTERIOUS MR. QUIN

This collection of 12 short stories is less well known than Christie's detective novels featuring Poirot and Marple, but her skillful plotting, breezy dialogue, and clever twists are as just evident. Hugh Fraser ably portrays a variety of nationalities and ages; even his women's voices are distinctive and believable. Mr. Quin is not a detective but rather a figure who enters into critical situations and helps those involved to sort out their memories and think logically. He is accompanied by an older gentleman who has access to the British upper crust of the 1920s, an environment in which Fraser seems to be at home. A good match and good listening. D.L.G. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]