NOT IN THE FLESH

Two corpses turn up in rapid succession in an English village, and Chief Inspector Wexford must unravel the mystery of how they got there, whether they're related, and who did what to whom. Simon Vance performs this latest Ruth Rendell mystery with a blend of spirited adventure and subdued reverence. Vance imparts enough variation to the story's heroes and villains that a listener new to the series can easily differentiate among them. His portrayal of protagonist Wexford adds to the mature, somewhat tired, character created by Rendell, giving the middle-aged protagonist both the vulnerability of age and the strength of a lawman. Those familiar with Wexford will not be disappointed, and newcomers will be inspired to try more. R.L.L. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 08]