CROSS

Bruen’s graphically dark follow-up to PRIEST continues the story of ex-cop Jack Taylor. His surrogate son is in a coma, and he is still ground down by guilt over his responsibility in a child's death. He's stopped drinking and given up on religion, most friendships, and hope. When he's asked to investigate the crucifixion of a young boy in Galway, what he finds sickens the hardened veteran, leaving him cold sober in a bleak world. Gerry O'Brien's narration takes Taylor from one misfortune to another. O'Brien's voice is the coarse rasp of a heavy drinker. His tone is flawless for the character of a man who awakens each day daring God to do his best to destroy him. O'Brien's unrelentingly grim reading offers an authentic taste of Irish noir. S.J.H. 2009 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2008]