A KING'S RANSOM

James Grippando's novel shifts in and out of first person as it tells the story of Matthew Rey, a fisherman held for ransom by Colombian guerrillas, and son Nick, a lawyer battling the insurance company, the FBI, and his own firm to save his father. John Bedford Lloyd handles the transitions well, keeping listeners hooked with the emotions of the situation, while delivering the chills of the tense action scenes. This abridgment packs a lot into six hours, preserving family drama and background, as well as a complex kidnapping plot. Each side ends with a twist well chosen to make the listener come back for more. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 01]