Ruth Rendell’s brand of psychological suspense is much imitated, but her master’s touch is clearly evident. Nigel Anthony, also clearly a master of the narrative arts, takes listeners through Inspector Wexford’s winding investigation of the disappearance of two teenaged children and their overnight sitter. Moody, introspective, and intellectual, Wexford is wonderfully played by Anthony, who amplifies, not just the Chief Inspector, but the other policemen, family members, and townsfolk. Anthony spins out the tale with ease and assurance. He’s in touch with the story’s pace, knowing exactly when to stretch it out and when to ratchet up the suspense. Listeners can savor Rendell’s newest work and enjoy the listening hours.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2003
Duration: 12 hrs
Publisher: BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Novelist Benet Archdale and housemaid Carol Stratford are two young, single parents who have no reason to know each other. They become tangled in a nightmarish spiral of kidnap, fraud, family violence and death. Ruth Rendell creates psychological suspense in thrillers that are compulsively readable or, in this case, listenable. British actress Imelda Staunton's reading is perfectly paced, and the characters are well defined. You'll have a hard time turning it off.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 9 hrs
Publisher: BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Emerson and Peabody are at it again! Uncovering antiquities takes a back-seat as the romantic archaeologists track down the master criminal who is stealing Egypt's ancient treasures. With the help of their precocious son, Ramses, the intrepid pair unravel this mystery in crowded bazaars, desert camps and the heart of the Black Pyramid. Barbara Rosenblat's reading fully measures up to the tale. She is a master of timing and nuance. Rosenblat's power for character interpretation has grown with each book in this amusing series. This is the best one yet.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 12 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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