PHANTOM NIGHTS

In 1952 the ghost of a murdered nurse guides the mute boy who witnessed her death in bringing her killer to justice in rural Tennessee. This combination procedural and horror story unfolds with wit, vivid characterization, plenty of suspense, and, for a page-turner, a surprisingly graceful narrative style. One would expect the reader of such fare to adopt a low, sardonic, lugubrious baritone. But this recording gives us something unexpected and much more enjoyable. Joey Collins has a boyish voice and a Dionysian style. Mischief invests his every intonation; he is having so much exuberant fun that the listener becomes energized and delighted despite the book's more chilling moments. Yet he is never out of control, never giving too much. All in all, this is a rare and happy combination of excellent writing, quirky casting, and joyful performance. Y.R. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 06]