THE MIDCOAST

George Newbern opens this novel in the matter-of-fact tone of its main character. His voice increases in intensity as the mystery develops: How did lobsterman Ed Thatch--who started from nothing--make so much money? Other than the shop that sells buoys with pictures of politicians painted on them, there's nothing special about Damariscotta, unless it's a noticeably low crime rate. Newbern doesn't sound like a true Mainer, but then the novel's narrator is first generation, almost an outsider. Almost a tourist. Newbern's voice is well modulated, giving listeners time to enjoy the skillful writing, the colorful characters. He puts the thrill into this thriller. If there's a great crime behind every great fortune, then what's behind the success of this particular lobsterman? B.H.C. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2022]