Her Sister’s Death

Rachel Fulginiti, Kate Rudd, and Curt Bonnem skillfully narrate Murphy’s (The Last Sin) riveting tale about the Franklin Hotel and two murders that occurred there, 100 years apart. Baltimore crime reporter Val Ritter is shocked when she learns that her sister Sylvia apparently died by suicide at the Franklin Hotel. Val is convinced she did not kill herself, but the police close the case. Fortunately, retired detective Terry Martin offers to help Val investigate. From there, the book splits into two engrossing timelines: Val’s quest for the truth, and the recounting of the terrible ordeal faced by Bridget, a young bride at the Franklin in the 1920s. Bridget’s story makes for tough listening, as her husband frequently beats her during their stay at the Franklin. As their investigation deepens, Val and Terry begin to think that the Franklin may harbor evil within. While it is occasionally difficult to differentiate between Fulginiti’s and Rudd’s voices, all three narrators provide marvelous portrayals of each character. The pacing is excellent, maintaining a high level of tension throughout.