FUNERAL IN BLUE

P.I. William Monk, a continuing character in Perry's mystery series set in 1860s London, seeks to exonerate a doctor accused of murder. David Colacci's proper British accent lends an aura of authenticity to Perry's richly detailed setting. He keeps the story moving at a good pace, giving individual voice to characters in an understated, nonobtrusive way. Occasionally he gives Monk's wife, Hester, a false, breathy voice that doesn't ring true. A minor irritation, it doesn't detract from the overall listening experience. The abridgment is smooth, but with a compelling plot, memorable characters, vivid setting, and smoothly integrated historical events, readers with time to spare may want their next Monk unabridged. E.S. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 02]