ILLUSIONS

This Pronzini mystery, a combination of tough-guy bravado and big soft-heartedness, offers challenges even to an accomplished reader. Narrator Nick Sullivan is fantastic; each character is a unique individual. His female voices are particularly effective and enjoyable each time any of the women speak. African-American and ethnic characters are perfectly captured, as well. The Nameless detective is shocked and upset when his former partner appears to have committed suicide. His research into what really happened takes him into the mean streets where he confronts unpleasant truths, even about himself. Each Pronzini book is an event, and Nick Sullivan as the reader adds fanfare and glitter to the interpretation. S.G.B. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/JAN 99]