HOT SPRINGS

Earl Swaggert, decorated WWII Marine, is rescued from his suicidal thoughts and heavy drinking when he is asked to train a special cadre of young law enforcement officers to clean up the gangster-run city of Hot Springs. The plot has plenty of action and is replete with enough twists and turns to keep the listener intrigued until the final moments. Bill Dufris is outstanding in his portrayal of Marines, Southerners, New York gangsters, and sexy hot babes. He uses tempo well as he quickens the pace when the tension and action build, and he wisely lets the story carry the drama. Dufris's performance actually enhances the writing. The only weakness is in the voice of Owney Maddox, a New York gangster who sports a fake English accent, mannerisms, and dress for his public persona. Dufris's portrayal of Maddox is not up to those of the other characters and lacks consistency. S.S.R. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 02]