WORMWOOD

Martha, a trustee of Kentucky's Mount Zion Shaker Village, is concerned about a series of dirty tricks (freezer failure, theft, vandalism, and arson) that are plaguing the village. She convinces her friend China Bayles to leave her Pecan Springs, Texas, herb shop and tearoom and accompany her to investigate. Amid the charming Shaker surroundings, the two encounter embezzlement and murder. Albert’s seventeenth China Bayles mystery includes fascinating herbal lore plus insights into early Shaker life via historical notes and a fictional Shaker journal chronicling everything from shocking scandals to furniture-making. Julia Gibson’s warm tones and superb accents are terrific. Linda Stephens and Ed Sala add credibility to Albert’s impeccable historical research. A must listen for China Bayles fans. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2010]