THE COURTSHIP GIFT

Anna Neale's life is turned on its side when her husband dies after opening a "gift" of bees from a sender who surely knows of his deadly allergy. The resulting disclosures of her husband's financial dealings and infidelities and her ensuing financial straits leave her emotionally vulnerable--perfect prey for Matthew, who patiently draws her in through his manipulations of her naive and trusting nature. Gerri Halligan delivers a tight narration in this compelling performance. She relies on accents, cadences of speech, and tone in distinguishing characters and in contrasting the narrative voice from her primary characters. She skillfully and artfully sustains the tension and drama of this complex and well-constructed psychological thriller. J.E.M. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 02]