BLACK NOTICE

This gripping Kay Scarpetta mystery is more horror story than whodunit. A human monster is mutilating women on two continents. Chief Medical Examiner Scarpetta is challenged not only by this, but also by her niece Lucy, her staff, changes in the Richmond police force and the death of her own lover. Whether internalizing personal disasters or attacking incompetance, C.J. Critt's Kay Scarpetta is varied and adroit. Her interpretation of Captain Marino, with his foul mouth and pessimistic views, is equally skillful. She isn't as sure and clear though with her French accents. The characters in Paris improve as the narrative unfolds, but they never roll their "r's" quite as richly as one hopes they will. Graphic details may make this book too grisly for some. B.H.B. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 00]