SHADES OF BLUE

Moody's latest Evan Horne novel is an entertaining story that doesn't seem to know what it wants to be. As a result, the book is entertaining, but it leaves listeners wanting more. In his narration Grover Gardner uses a calm tone that works well with the world of jazz depicted in the story. Gardner beautifully captures Horne's astonishment at the life-changing information he receives when his friend and mentor, pianist Calvin Hughes, dies. Another of the novel's characters also dies early in the book. From there, the novel loses focus because Moody does not succeed in bringing his two subplots together. Still, Gardner's strengths help listeners to enjoy the production, despite its disappointing development. D.J.S. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 08]