Lauren Belfer's intriguing first novel is beautifully suited to audio and realizes all its potential through skillful narration and careful production. An unlikely heroine--charismatic headmistress Louisa Barrett--is intriguingly portrayed by Jan Maxwell. Cast as a central character and the narrator, Barrett is involved in the intrigue, romance and politics surrounding Buffalo and the development of hydropower at Niagara Falls. Maxwell gives "Miss Barrett" a subtle resonance with her clear, unique speech pattern, while deftly coloring other historical figures against a backdrop of turn-of-the-century manners. The timing, cadences and transitions are carefully orchestrated in this program directed by Charles Potter and produced by David Rapkin.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1999
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Escape on a thrilling adventure with Soneela Nankani and Andrew Eiden as they narrate this suspenseful romance. A year has passed since Simi Chopra, her assorted crew, and Jack Danger pulled off a lucrative diamond heist. Now, the Chicago Mafia boss is demanding that the jewels be returned, so Simi gets the team back together. Nankani delivers an expressive performance that emphasizes Simi's conflict between her passion for Jack and the mission. Her distinct character voices keep the listener fully immersed. Eiden's lively tone gives Jack a subtle flair and confidence that make him easy to forgive and to love.
Pub Date: Aug. 20, 2024
Duration: 11 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593907467
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This is not a story about guns, but about blue pearls. Gerald Browne takes us to the Pacific Ocean and the world of pearl divers and natural gems and mixes in mystery, intrigue and suspense. Barry Bostwick portrays the characters in one voice, varying his intonation slightly for the Asian personalities. His reading style is very smooth, evidence of preparation and interest in the story. 18mm Blues is abridged well, collecting the important elements of the story. Unobtrusive music indicates the end of each side. Disappear into the mystery of the Far East and one of its most beautiful commodities.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1993
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Audio Renaissance
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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