THE FEAR INDEX

Harris's detail-rich approach to his historical fiction, CONSPIRATA, IMPERIUM, THE FATHERLAND, works stunningly with this combination of financial and psychological suspense. Christian Rodska's narration sets off a "fear response" from the get-go. The mysterious arrival of a first edition of Darwin's THE EXPRESSION OF THE EMOTIONS IN MAN AND ANIMALS starts the unraveling of Dr. Hoffman's carefully orchestrated hedge-funds gambits. The artificial intelligence system VIXAL-4 that makes his company billions of dollars begins to evolve like a species—with devastating results. Rodska's mercurial changes of voice bring each character sharply into focus. He cements the emotional connections of panic, paranoia, and fear to make unstoppable listening. The volatile intersection of AI and greed makes for great storytelling, and Harris and Rodska are a chilling combination. R.F.W. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2012]