PRECIOUS BLOOD

The longer you listen to Kirby Heyborne's narration of this thriller, the better he gets. Though he begins somewhat tentatively, his performance builds to a crescendo. A former New York medical examiner, burned out by his work after 9/11, is on the trail of a serial killer who dispatches his victims in horrendous ways. In fact, if you have a weak stomach, pass this one up. For the rest of us, hold on to your seats and enjoy the ride. The only disappointing element in this story lies not with Heyborne, but with the author. At the end, he leaves too many questions unanswered, and unless he intends to write a sequel, which would be appreciated, listeners won't be fully sated. A.L.H. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 08]