In a Dark House.

IN A DARK HOUSE. Deborah Crombie. 2004. Read by Michael Deehy. 10 cds. 11.25 hrs. BBC Audiobooks America. 0-7927-33428. $94.95. Vinyl; plot, author, reader notes. A

A series of fires in various locations around London seem unrelated and accidental at first, since no accelerant is found nor any other obvious clues that the fires might be the work of a serial arsonist. Scotland Yard Det. Supt. Duncan Kincaid is assigned to help in the investigation when the body of a naked woman burned beyond recognition is found in the latest fire, a Victorian warehouse being converted into luxury flats that is owned by a prominent Member of Parliament. This is Crombie's 10th novel featuring Kincaid, a man torn between the demands of his job and the love of his son and his partner, Gemma James.

The threads of numerous subplots seem unrelated, but are skillfully drawn together by the author as the novel progresses. Deehy's reading of this complex thriller is excellent. His slight British accent is appropriate to the story and he creates a brogue for the characters from Scotland. The emotions involved in the many interpersonal relationships are well expressed in Deehy's voice. Carol Kellerman, Santa Fe, NM

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code help librarian and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also will help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.