THE HOUSE OF WOMEN

When an ailing lodger dies in his room, the female relatives with whom he lives assume natural causes. One young niece, however, doesn't buy it and helps police solve the murder. Steve Hodson tells the story from the point of view of Detective Chief Inspector Michael McKenna. His portrayal of the troubled officer is the most poignant, the most insightful of the many characters in the book. The others he handles competently, both males and females, bringing life to even the most minor parts without overplaying them. McKenna and his male colleagues play a supportive role in this story. Hodson's understanding performance captures the sadness and hope that surround both the women of the family and the women in McKenna's professional circle. R.P.L. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/ JAN 02]