ISBN: 0-7887-0488-5 Order from: Recorded Books
A tense, fast-moving mystery, with a well-portrayed world of Miami and Cuban Exile Politics, dragged down by predictability and some awkwardness in the plot.
Reviewed by David on January 04, 2003
Genre: Mystery (Politics)
Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of Act of Betrayal.
The Miami News reporter Britt Montero covers the police beat: she frequents the murder scenes and police buildings. Most crimes are investigated by the police, and Britt's major skills lie in ferreting out information from the detectives and prosecutors.
Occasionally, however, Britt undertakes an investigation herself. When an old, unsolved disappearance makes it to her desk, Britt decides to poke around in the old files. A minor effort driven by curiousity and compassion, however, turns into an intense investigation, as Britt uncovers something very scary indeed. The investigation suddenly becomes urgent and personal for Britt.
Full Review: The book, for the most part, maintains a likable and capable protagonist, as well as an interesting and tense plot. There is a bit of situational humor to break up the tensions, but not enough to seem forced.
There are, however, a few flaws. The most glaring was the seeming irrationality on the part of Britt, near the end of the book—a trait especially jarring in a previously intelligent and cautious woman. A less intense issue is the telegraphed resolution of the mystery—one that's clear to the reader but not to the protagonist. The coincidences surrounding the crime make the plot more involving, but less probable.
In general, this was an enjoyable mystery, despite several flaws, and one that keeps the reader in pleasantly intense anticipation for much of the book. There are enough good elements to interest a reader in looking up other books that feature Ms. Montero.
Overall: 5.5; Plot: 4.5; Characters: 5.5; Style: 6; World-building: 6; Originality: 5.5;
Copyright date 1996, Recorded Books, 1996, Audio cassette, 7 cassettes
ISBN: 0-7887-0488-5 Order from: Recorded Books