LAVENDER HOUSE

Vikas Adam shines in this character-driven mystery set in 1950s San Francisco. After he's caught in a raid on a gay bar and fired from the police force, Andy thinks his life is over. Instead, the matriarch of a wealthy queer family hires him to investigate her wife's murder--and introduces him to their house, where queer people love openly. From the flirty joking of the family's son-in-law to the sad, refined tones of the grieving widow, Adam captures the essence of every character. He's at his best when portraying Andy, which he does with compassion. His gruff, deep voice sounds more like a growl when Andy is upset, and softens to a tremble in moments of vulnerability. This is a beautiful, satisfying listen. L.S. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2022]