Survivor in Death.

SURVIVOR IN DEATH. (In Death series.) Nora Roberts. 2005. Read by Susan Ericksen. 10 cds. 12 hrs. Brilliance Audio. 1-59600-167-4. $97.25. Vinyl; plot, reader notes. A

Hard to believe but this is #20 in Robb's (Nora Roberts) futuristic crime series. The survivor here is 10-year-old Nixie, who narrowly avoids being killed when her entire family and best friend are murdered in their New York apartment. Bristly police lieutenant Eve Dallas, also a survivor, reluctantly develops a relationship with Nixie (the only witness) as she investigates the case. Eve is aided and abetted as always by her handsome rich husband Roarke and her staunch associate Peabody. The action slows down as we learn the killer's identity early on but escalates as Eve's trap puts Nixie unexpectedly at risk.

As always, Eriksen's multi-voiced narration is excellent. Peabody is pragmatic, Eve is bright and blunt, and Roark's brogue is easy on the ears. The traditional elements of the In Death series are here--violence, steamy love scenes, and adult language. Bette Ammon, Director, Coeur d'Alene PL, ID

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