Cold Hit.

COLD HIT. Stephen J. Cannell. 2005. Read by Scott Brick. 9 cds. 10.75 hrs. BBC Audiobooks America. 0-7927-3741-5. $89.95. Vinyl; plot, author, reader notes. A

Shane Scully and his partner, Zack (of the Los Angeles Police Department, LAPD) are investigating serial murders; all but one of the victims are Vietnam vets. When Scully and Zack are zinged with the final homicide, the LAPD creates a special task force headed by an experienced FBI agent. It is no surprise that he and Scully do not see eye to eye. Adding to Scully's problems are Zack's alcoholic binges and depression. Lots of intrigue and action ensue as Scully's wife, his boss, tries to ease her fears for his safety with the needs of the department; a ten-year-old case surfaces as a cold hit with the bullet matching the only one they have found; the Russian mafia seems to be involved; the CIA, FBI and some of their international counterparts take conflicting sides; and the Patriot Act seems to influence progress as well.

The witty writing is enhanced by Brick's reading as he once again, so capably, breathes life into multiple characters, maintains the pace and suspense, and keeps readers enthralled. Mary Purucker, Beverly Hills PL, Beverly Hills, CA