CHRISTMAS MOURNING

In her 16th Judge Deborah Knott mystery, Edgar-winning author Margaret Maron focuses on solid family relationships, affection, and open communication between generations. A popular North Carolina cheerleader is killed in a one-car crash on her way home from a party. Another crash, months earlier, killed two students, crippling a third. Deborah’s husband, Sheriff’s Deputy Dwight Bryant, doubts these were accidents. When two brothers are murdered, an investigation begins in earnest. C.J. Critt’s performance is appealing, full of life and youthful energy. Critt is amusing as Deborah juggles work with preparing for her enormous family’s holiday gathering and completely believable as Dwight and Deborah garner information from the constant texting of their teenaged relatives. An intriguing mystery read by an engaging narrator makes this fine listening. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2011]