Deadly Stakes

Jance's book is filled with colorful characters, and has some thrilling moments. But it is also has some scenes that defy believability and dialogue that borders on the tedious. This type of story is one that can succeed or fail due to the skill of the narrator, and Karen Ziemba's performance demonstrates how important a reader is. Ziemba is comfortable with the story, which features Ali Reynolds's investigation of a gruesome murder. Reynolds must prove that Lynn Martinson, who is dating the victim's ex-husband, and her boyfriend Chip Ralston, are innocent. The book has its ups and downs, but Ziemba's steady delivery keeps the story flowing. D.J.S. (c) AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine