THE BIG BAD CITY

McBain's gritty 87th Precinct mysteries are noted for their clever plotting, ironic humor and vivid characters. This title exemplifies all these virtues, particularly as read here by the author. His voice sounds as if he's been ravaged by years of hard living on New York streets. One can readily believe he witnessed the three cases he reports herein--the murdered nun, the "cookie boy" burglar and the thug stalking the cop. His delivery is professional, but his authentic sound makes his technique seem invisible. He is not only one of the top detective fiction writers in America today, but one of the best author/narrators, as well. Y.R. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 99]