INFINITY'S CHILD

Evil scientists engaged in longevity research, a mutant "infinity" gene, grave-robbing—which may or may not be teenaged pranks—car crashes, mysterious disappearances, graphic descriptions of surgery and surgical experiments, plus the usual passages of hot sex, murder, mayhem, and minor miracles—all these comprise Harry Stein's latest. With Laurel Merlington's capable narration to guide listeners, this is one time when suspending disbelief is easy and fun. Sally Benedict, editor of a New Hampshire newspaper and mother-to-be, follows a grave-robbing story and unearths a nest of real crazies in a lab just down the road who seem determined to steal her baby. Merlington has multiple skills: Her accents ring true, her portrayal of Sally's paranoia is believable, her minor characters seem fully formed, and her pacing is top-notch. Definitely one for the beach—or for listening by the fire. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2009]