FIND A VICTIM

The complex plot of FIND A VICTIM unravels from narrator-hero Lew Archer's investigation into the shooting death of a hitchhiker. Archer exposes a California town mired in corruption. Weakened at times by clichéd dialogue, the book nonetheless finishes strongly with revelations rich in action and ideas. Tom Parker's relaxed, measured delivery suits well this thinking person's detective novel. His leisurely approach facilitates an appreciation of Macdonald's poetic metaphors ("Some random stars began to nail up the edges of the evening..."), and his favorite theme of family guilt. Though not the best of the Archer books, this novel is served well by Parker's effective reading. G.H. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 99]