ROGUE ISLAND

The title ROGUE ISLAND, supposedly the original name of Rhode Island, accurately sets the tone of Bruce DeSilva's debut novel. Using Providence as a backdrop, DeSilva offers a plot as twisted as the city's politics and characters as gritty and engaging as the tiny state itself. Narrator Paul Boehmer's skillful use of pace, intensity, and volume keeps the action clipping along. His credible "Rhody" accent adds to his convincing portrayal of protagonist Liam Mulligan, a hard-bitten, cynical newspaperman. Boehmer handles the thugs, heroes, harlots, and ladies who make up the rest of the cast equally well. The story and characters have broad appeal, and DeSilva's generous use of regional detail will offer an extra level of interest for listeners with New England connections. M.O.B. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2011]