LAUGHED 'TIL HE DIED

A congenial South Carolina couple, the Darlings, manages a bookstore and gets caught up in murder investigations. In this twentieth episode, the Darlings look into three murders that are linked to the local recreation center. The seemingly idyllic community of Broward’s Rock is filled with quirky and troubled characters, all of whom are convincingly portrayed by Kate Reading. She does her best to keep the listener engaged, although the story seems padded and repetitious at times. However, with Reading’s polished style, the characters and setting sound authentic. Those who follow Hart’s regional mysteries will enjoy this latest. D.L.G. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2011]