PENALTY SHOOTOUT

Chief Inspector Colin Thane and Inspector Phill Moss face some challenges as they solve a big art heist. They must chase, catch, and arrest the culprits during an international football (soccer) match. The always-delightful James Bryce gives each seventies-era character great individuality while staying true to Scots uniqueness. Both groaner and subtle humor, as well as heavy accents, are delivered well as the story takes listeners back to an earlier time. As the police arrest drunken fans even before the game begins, the authorities prepare to close in. Knox also adds glimpses of family life and the raw pain felt by the police when they lose one of their own. An excellent choice for mystery fans seeking an international twist. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2009]