DEAD CONNECTION

A killer using an Internet dating service to stalk victims is not a new idea, but Alafair Burke's insights into contemporary lifestyles make what could be humdrum become fresh. Ellie Hatcher, rookie NYPD Robbery Division detective, is temporarily assigned to Homicide to investigate the murders of two single women who used FirstDate.com. Christopher Lane might seem an unusual choice to narrate a book with a female protagonist, but his performance is first-rate. As the plot unwinds, Lane deftly handles good cops, bad cops, Russian gangsters, a sociopath with a grudge, as well as Ellie and her back story, never striking a false note. An intriguing plot line, a terrific new female detective, and an accomplished reading by Christopher Lane make Alafair Burke's latest crime novel a gem. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]