TOXIN

Cook's story--which involves the meat industry, food-borne pathogens, the FDA, and managed care--will likely put the listener off fast-food burgers (at the least). Dr. Kim Regis, a cardiac surgeon, suspects that daughter Becky's sudden and severe illness is linked to the hamburger he bought her during their night out. As her conditions worsens, he vows to trace the E. coli to its source. Although Regis is arrogant and reckless and some plot elements are hard to swallow, the fast pace of the story, the drive to discover the cause of Becky's illness, and Jason Culp's skillful narration captivate the listener. His vocalizations are subtle but effective. His pacing is perfect, and Culp's characterizations make the many conversations easy to follow. A gripping and involving thriller--but don't listen while eating beef! M.A.M. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 00]