DOWN THE DARKEST ROAD

Tami Hoag’s latest Oak Knoll mystery is set in 1986—before the advent of instant computer analysis, DNA technology, criminal profiling, and forensics. Years after her daughter was abducted, Lauren Lawton is convinced that Roland Ballencoa was responsible. Lacking proof, she tracks Ballencoa to Oak Knoll, where her obsession becomes destructive. Kirsten Potter’s performance is measured, intelligent, and credible. Potter narrates the other books in the series, and her renditions of regulars, including Detective Tony Mendez and former FBI legend Vince Leone, are consistent. She does wonders with new characters, particularly Ballencoa and Santa Barbara police detective Danni Tanner, adding substance to the engrossing story. Listening to the earlier books will make this one even more satisfying. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2012]