STICKS AND STONES

PI Cat DeLuca launches the "Pants on Fire Detective Agency" to catch cheaters after two years of "unholy matrimony" with an incurable cheater husband of her own. When Cat's assistant, Cleo Jones, shoots her husband Walter's backside full of buckshot, Cat agrees to take the case if Cleo agrees to stop shooting. Vanessa Hart's fresh, animated narration captures the zany comedy and drama of this mystery—which is reminiscent of Janet Evanovich’s work. Hart combines authentic sound effects with comedic timing to portray Cat's consternation when she finds Walter's still-warm body—and a mysterious bag of cash. Larsen’s laugh-out-loud story is enhanced by Hart’s delightful depiction of Inga, Cat's evidence-eating beagle. G.D.W. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2012]