THE DETECTIVE'S ASSISTANT

In a voice laden with gusto and grit, narrator Christine Lakin sounds just as determined as 11-year-old Nell, who desperately wants to convince her aunt that she's both a worthy detective and a worthy family member. Nell's aunt is none other than Kate Warne, the first female agent of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency. She initially has no use for the destitute girl, but persistent Nell involves herself helpfully in cases, embracing the intrigue and solving a case of her own as well. Lakin's performance repertoire makes for good listening. Her feisty portrayal of Nell also has heartfelt moments of wisdom, cheer, and sadness, especially in her letters to her friend, Jemma. Aunt Kate is as icy as they come as she strives to keep tradecraft to herself, and Lakin's Scots brogue brings credibility to Mr. Allan Pinkerton. A.R. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2015]