First
Family ,
by David Baldacci (Read by Ron McLarty)
The title of this book could have been
"First Lady," since she is the character who
seems to be in control of things and is at the heart
of most of what happens in this thrilling story. When
her favorite niece is kidnapped after a birthday party
at Camp David, First Lady Pam Dutton asks former special
agent Sean King to assist the FBI in the investigation.
Early in her husband's career, Sean King had saved the
then-Senator's reputation and career. Impressed with
his skill and loyalty, the First Lady once again turns
to Sean. He and his partner, Michelle Maxwell, quickly
find themselves dealing with murder and multiple kidnappings.
As they work feverishly to find the young girl's abductor
and return her to her family unharmed, Michelle learns
that her own mother has been murdered in an unrelated
crime. Leaving Sean to work the case alone she returns
home where she faces childhood demons and modern day
dangers. Meanwhile, Sam Quarry, a 62-year-old man with
a comatose daughter on life support, surfaces early
in the story as the mastermind behind the presidential
killings and kidnappings, but his motives elude the
listener until the suspense-filled conclusion.
Baldacci has written another gripping,
action-packed thriller with an intricate plot and fascinating
characters. Sean King and Michelle Maxwell exhibit personal
flaws along with their extreme bravery, resourcefulness,
strength and intelligence. Sam Quarry, although the
obvious villain, is at times sensitive, caring and compassionate
and at other times ruthless. Pam Dutton and her family
members are at times either extremely weak or exceptionally
strong, but always motivated by blind ambition. McLarty
is equally adept at portraying the heroic and villainous
characters. His pace and delivery keep the listener
engaged and entertained, eagerly anticipating the next
plot twist.
Besides being an engrossing story, First
Family deals with several important themes. It illustrates
how actions in the past can have a way of affecting
the future in unexpected and devastating ways. It shows
how power corrupts the innocent and how the corrupt
use power to become even more corrupt. And it points
out how deep love can foster bitter hatred that can
only bring unhappiness to everyone involved. Baldacci
fans will not be disappointed in this mesmerizing audio
book. Highly recommended.
John
Mormon
7/10/09
|
