STATE FAIR

Earlene Fowler has a devoted following for her series featuring Benni Harper, a quilter, deep-fried food fanatic, and reluctant sleuth. Narrator Johanna Parker captures Benni's bright, breezy personality and portrays the many folksy incidents that take place during the California Mid-State Fair. One of these is a murder, and a Miss Marple-like aunt meddles in the case, creating what passes for suspense. Parker does a credible job depicting characters as diverse as African-American ladies and defiant teenage boys. Her skill brings this chatty mystery alive. D.L.G. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2011]