GRASS ROOTS

Will Lee is running for the U.S. Senate. His life is an open book--all but the romantic part. The woman in his life is a CIA operative, so secrecy is imperative. His opponents are part of a network of right-wing conservatives, white supremacists, and nutcases. Barrett Whitener's performance makes this as engrossing and believable a tale as it can be, although certain plot elements stretch credibility. Hate crimes, racism, and politics allow Whitener to create an assortment of intriguing characters. His energy and expertise take us through high-speed car chases, dangerous stakeouts, and a thrilling election campaign. With its neatly tied-up ends, Stuart Woods knows how to spin a yarn to capture even the most blasé listener, and Whitener makes it happen. S.J.H. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 02]