LYING WITH STRANGERS

James Grippando takes a break from his Jack Swytek series. Alyssa Bresnahan's precise delivery makes it easy to follow the story of Peyton Shields and Kevin Stokes, a couple having trouble with the truth, who are allowing their lives to be molded by a psychopath. Every time something is revealed, more remains hidden. Bresnahan portrays the many and varied characters inhabiting the book with aplomb. She gives each character a distinct identity and never drifts into caricature. This is demonstrated especially well with the character of Peyton's lawyer, whom Bresnahan manages to play as shady but likable. The story ratchets up to a nice twist at the end. E.D.H. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 08]