BEYOND RECOGNITION

Sergeant Lou Boldt, Seattle homicide detective, and Daphne Matthews, police psychologist, rejoin forces in Pearson's newest thriller. With the reluctant assistance of a psychic and a wily, abused, terrific 10-year-old boy, Boldt and Matthews attempt to stop an arsonist/murderer, whose white-hot fires reduce victim and house to ashes within minutes. Reader Dale Hull's matter-of-fact, steady baritone clearly distinguishes characters as he relates the intricately woven story. Hull uses a softened quality for Daphne, hoarse rasping for the arsonist and a tough innocence in his portrayal of the boy, Ben. The jaded yet compassionate gruffness of Lou Boldt drives the action. Rich characters and plot make Pearson's story masterful; Hull's reading perfectly builds the suspense. J.H.B. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPT 97]