Hand of Fate

Jim Fate, a Limbaugh-style talk-show host, opens a sealed envelope and inhales poison gas. The Triple Threat Club trio, FBI Special Agent Nicole, Federal Prosecutor Allison, and TV crime reporter Cassidy, who has been personally involved with Fate, go into action to chase down the perpetrator. Narrator Pam Turlow differentiates each character and dramatizes her struggles and fears. However, the author's overemphasis on character detracts from the mystery. Still, Turlow's depictions of Allison's worry over a possible miscarriage, Nicole's fears of abuse, and Cassidy's unsuspected prescription-drug addiction are credible and engaging. In the end, Turlow's excellent narration overcomes the shortcoming of too many personal issues. G.D.W. (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine