Dumb Witness

Poirot's little gray cells are activated when he receives a letter from an elderly woman concerned about her safety--two months after her death. Soon he and Hastings visit Little Green House and meet the late Miss Arundell's multiple relatives, all of whom had opportunity and motive to benefit from her death. Narrator Hugh Fraser, who plays Poirot's assistant on A&E and PBS, is exceptional as Hastings, Poirot, and the huge cast of suspects. The spoiled niece and nephew; desperate Bella; the maligned Greek doctor; the companion, Miss Lawson; and last but not least, the dog, Bob, whose internal monologues add to the intrigue and fun, are all perfectly portrayed. S.G.B. (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine

Poirot and Hastings are even more disarming than usual as they tackle a death (murder?) that occurred before Poirot receives the victim's letter. In this excellent BBC production John Moffatt and Simon Williams are joined by a full cast. Production bonuses are sound effects and music written specially by Tom Smail. Every fascinating character the listener meets may have had the opportunity, means, and motivation to kill the victim. The best is Bob, the victim's wire-haired terrier, who holds the key to the mystery's solution. Selfishness and greed are everywhere in this story, with the dog being the only likable character. This is an absolute treat for mystery fans. S.G.B. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine