THE HOT FLASH CLUB

When four women between the ages of 52 and 62 meet at a retirement party, they discover that each has the resources to solve one of the other's problems. Carrington MacDuffie creates distinctive and evocative voices for stern corporate vice president Alice and New Age masseuse Shirley. The voices of mousy paleo-biologist Marilyn and widowed artist Faye aren't as distinct, but Thayer's writing makes it clear who is speaking. This menopausal "chick lit" ensemble features romance, epiphany, and a minor mystery, which Faye discovers and solves while working undercover in a mansion. Along with MacDuffie's fine reading, it all makes for an entertaining listen. D.T.H. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 04]