EPITAPHS

Bill Pronzini's Nameless Detective seems inspired by Hammett's Continental Op, a fellow San Franciscan, though far less cynical and many pounds lighter. He's got girlfriend troubles, friction with his business partner, and a pro bono investigation to find an old paisan's missing granddaughter, who may or may not have been turning tricks and who may or may not have been murdered. Impersonating our hero is Nick Sullivan, who reads with dramatic flair and élan. Sounding a bit like the late John Ritter with a twang, he's not particularly believable as an aging, wisecracking tough guy. One can, however, fully accept his intelligence and sentimentality, and enjoy his crystalline diction and pleasant cadences. Y.R. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 04/ JAN 05]