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James Naughton is a frequent narrator of Parker’s Jesse Stone novels, and his vocal characterization of Stone is excellent. The Paradise, Massachusetts, police chief is involved in two criminal investigations: one with PI Sunny Randall, involving a religious cult, and the other the murder of mob enforcer Petrov Ognowski. Naughton delivers the banter between Jesse and Sunny in a warm, jovial manner that adds a homey element to their friendly relationship. Parker's novels focus on character, and Naughton creates unique and likable voices for all the supporting characters, including Stone’s subordinates Molly Crane and Suitcase Simpson. Naughton maintains the leisurely persona of Stone yet instills tension and drive into the story. S.C.A. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2010]