THE BEST AMERICAN MYSTERY STORIES 2003

Michael Connelly and Otto Penzler unite for the seventh installment in this mystery anthology. Predictably, the quality of the narrators varies. "The Pickpocket," which features an old pickpocket who explains the tricks of his trade, includes a wonderful surprise ending. The narrator perfectly "sets up" his listeners for a terrific climax. Joyce Carol Oates's "The Skull" is a disturbing story further enhanced by Eric Conger, who seems to take on the persona of the complex main character. Finally, the two most bizarre stories, "Controlled Burn" and "The Jeweler" are presented with just the right amount of creepiness. This series offers a variety of appetizers for short story fans and those new to the mystery genre. S.G.B.
(c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 04]