Little Scarlet
An Easy Rawlins Mystery
By Walter Mosley
Read by Michael Boatman

      School custodian and P.I. Easy Rawlins stayed in during the riots, but thanks to the LAPD he's now walking on dangerous ground. The LA police worry that investigating the murder of a black woman will stir up more violence. They summon Easy and give him the case. First time out, Easy consoles the community affected by the rioting, but is soon caught up the riotous world of racial intolerance now seized and executed by all. Eventually, Easy reacts to the whites with intolerance, like the rioters. Whether it's the power behind the case protecting him or the fiery anger of the riots, Easy Rawlins - the man of peace and compromise -- is changing inside.

      With the help of his friend Mouse, Easy looks for the murderer of Nola Payne whose red hair earned her the nickname Little Scarlet. The same night Nola is murdered a white man is pulled from his car and beaten. He's seen running into the building where Nola is later found dead. Did he avenge his beating by killing Nola? This is just one of the scenarios in the intricate storyline.

      On the personal side, Easy is 45 and believes he's ready to settle down. Easy's promise to be a one-woman-man is tested when he meets a young woman who emotionally and physically attracts him. Is Easy's personal life about to change, as well?

      Easy's voice takes readers through the aftermath of the 1965 riots - a gripping, profound period in US history. Actor Michael Boatman, known for "Spin City" and "Law and Order: SVU" is the voice of Easy Rawlins. His somber voice draws audio book listeners into the stark narrative of murder, intrigue and times past. The Easy Rawlins series is milder in comparison to the Fearless Jones series, but still bares Mosley's trademark mature-theme storytelling. Headphones recommended.