THE OPHELIA CUT Dismas Hardy, Book 14

For listeners of the Dismas Hardy series of courtroom dramas, this fourteenth volume, the first in four years, will be a welcome continuation. For newcomers, the basic story line engages one quickly, particularly with the presence of David Colacci, who has expertly narrated the majority of the series. The huge backstory looming throughout the narrative could be a bit confusing to newcomers, although not prohibitively. As the character list expands throughout the story, Colacci struggles to keep some voices distinct, and his female voices are occasionally disappointing. But overall, his narration is excellent, with his pacing and tone capturing the emotion and action as he walks listeners through the courtroom exchanges and characterizes a melancholy Hardy at the conclusion. M.L.R. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2013]