LIGHT BEFORE DAY

In West Hollywood, a meth lab explosion is tied to the disappearance of three gay men, as well as the suicide of a Marine. Young journalist Adam Murphy is on the trail of this story, aided by a bestselling novelist. Dallas Roberts gives Adam a burnt-out voice that creates a sense of impending danger as it also brings home his struggles with alcohol and drug addiction. The novel is laced with profanity and sexual detail in its portrayal of the West Hollywood gay scene. While Roberts effectively portrays its “noir” ambience, the story’s unrelenting chill may come across as too strong for some listeners. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 05]