BLACK WATER RISING

Dion Graham's soft, husky-voiced narration is arguably the most positive element of BLACK WATER RISING. His slight drawl is especially effective at lending depth and credibility to the main character, Jay Porter, as the young black lawyer struggles to get established in 1980s Texas. This first novel from author Attica Locke offers the narrator and the listener many challenges: a broad cast of ethnically diverse characters, frequent flashbacks and scene changes, an involved back story, and a plot that relies heavily on coincidence to advance the action. Through his skillful use of pause and inflection Graham maintains the pace necessary for a thriller, keeps the characters separate and identifiable, and helps the listener stay on track and engaged. M.O.B. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2009]