THE SLEEPWALKERS

Paul Grossman’s debut novel brims with quiet tension as Inspector Willi Krauss investigates a missing persons case in 1932 Berlin. A Jewish-German war hero, Krauss refuses to back down as pro-Nazi forces take root in the nation. The closer he gets to solving the mystery, the more dangerous things become. Grossman does a fine job setting the scene for the genesis of Nazism. As Krauss wends his way through his investigation, Christian Contreras weaves the voices of assorted relatives, associates, and opposing forces. He gives Krauss a patient voice that reflects his dogged personality, and for the woman Krauss falls for he delivers a flighty tone. A well-done historical piece. M.B. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2011]