SUCKER

Graham Halstead sounds totally authentic as he narrates this novel about people who aren't what they appear to be. Hornsby's clever and often hilarious second novel--seemingly inspired by the Elizabeth Holmes/Theranos start-up scandal--features Chuck, the son of an evil billionaire who reinvents himself as an average guy who is forced to get a real job. However, the Silicon Valley start-up he's working for turns out to be covering up a big secret. Halstead convincingly conveys Chuck's vibe--laid-back, bordering on ennui--and he seems comfortable rattling off the many obscure pop-culture references that pepper the dialogue. If Halstead's pace is a bit too languid, it's appropriate for Chuck's character. D.B. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2023]