In the Presence of the Enemy

An intriguing array of characters and subplots are the great joy of Elizabeth George's mystery series that revolve around Scotland Yard's Inspector Thomas Lynley; his Sergeant, Barbara Havers; and their cohorts, Simon and Deborah St. James and Lady Helen Clyde. In this episode Havers gets more of the limelight as she is given her first chance at heading the investigation of the kidnapping and murder of the daughter of a British MP. Donada Peters has developed a kindred relationship with the characters through eight unabridged recordings. Peters fluidly interprets each of the major characters with all the style George could have intended. The minor characters of constables, housekeepers and, in this case, the staff of a London tabloid have identifiable traits making the listening pure delight. George's series is capably narrated by Derek Jacobi in abridged form. But for mystery fans who want to savor the long unfolding of plot and savor the characters, Donada Peters is top choice. R.F.W. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine