A LATE PHOENIX

This entry in Aird's popular C.D. Sloan British mystery series was published in 1971. Some of the characters who become prominent in later works in the series do not appear, but Inspector Sloan, Constable Crosby, and Dr. Dabb are sufficient for the present. The action involves an old murder discovered at a WWII bomb site, followed by a new and related murder. Robin Bailey seems to perfectly understand his cast of characters in this endearing and entertaining series. His C.D. Sloan is wry, patient, and ever so slightly stolid. His Constable Crosby the enthusiastic, yet thoughtless young idiot with whom Crosby must work. His Dr. Dabb deep-voiced and business-like as he cuts up the cadavers. Bailey's pacing reflects Aird's gentle humor and highlights her sly social commentary. Well done. R.E.K. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/ JAN 02]