PERILOUS FRIENDS

Having just lost her job, Barbara Simons is wallowing in self-pity until her friends Susan and Joanne retrieve her from her gloom. Kate Reading adeptly preserves this multi-plotted story, separately framing each character's personal dilemma. Confronted with estranged relationships, drugs, and miscellaneous dead bodies, Barbara becomes involved with situations beyond her comprehension. Reading's calm, matter-of-fact phrasing rises to the action, suspense, and humor as necessary. A mystery with comic undertones, this book makes for quick listening. B.J.L. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/JAN 01]