THE CUT

George Pelecanos knows detective fiction, and he knows Washington, D.C. Both genre and setting play an integral part in his latest novel, which introduces the character Spero Lucas. The modern-day maverick investigator endears himself to his family, friends, and hometown. Dion Graham shines in his narration. As Lucas—a former Marine who served in Iraq—probes the mystery of several missing packages, Graham’s voices and delivery of street slang are distinct and creative. Spero’s erudite and streetwise brother; a young, innocent student; and assorted friends and colleagues all come alive in the listener’s ear. Graham is exceptional in his portrayal of the psychopathic ringleader of a criminal enterprise. Here’s hoping Pelecanos brings Lucas back—with Graham as narrator. M.B. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2011]