SIXTEEN HORSES

The discovery of 16 horses' heads buried in a field outside a declining English seaside town sets off a sequence of troubling and horrific events. D.S. Alec Nichols and forensic vet Dr. Cooper Allen are called in to investigate. Louise Brealey's understated narration creates a dark atmosphere well suited to this story. Her well-paced timing complements the short sentences that are used to build tension in the mystery. Her subtle characterizations enhance the believable and complicated protagonists, as well as various colorful villagers. Brealey's steady narration helps draw out the horror in the plot, particularly during descriptions of animal cruelty. The result is a challenging listen. K.J.P. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2021]