DANCE FOR THE DEAD

Jane Whitefield, a 32-year-old Seneca woman, is a unique mystery protagonist whose expertise is helping people in danger disappear. Whitefield is a combination of toughness, panache, and sensuality, traits that help her solve this complex mystery. Narrator Joyce Bean’s performance is engaging. She mixes her pace and tones adeptly, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the richness of Whitefield’s character. Equally effective is Bean’s portrayal of 8-year old Timmy Phillips, whom Whitefield is trying to protect after the murder of his adoptive parents. While the story is wordy and the ending a bit too pat, overall, this is an entertaining novel that benefits from Bean’s narration. D.J.S. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2010]