From Library Journal
It has been said that the dramatic works of Shakespeare were written not by the poet-impresario but by another man with the same name. This is basically the plot of this otherwise very sophisticated and very English mystery by the author of such works as The Crocodile Bird (Audio Reviews, LJ 5/15/94). The term "anticlimax" scarcely does the work justice. In addition, reader Charles Kay, though sensitive and skilled, has a rough and not-very-pleasant voice. Also, the story, set in Thatcher's London suburbs, has a more than full complement of characters, several of whom are already dead when the action begins. This is a recording strictly for Rendell's fans, and libraries should purchase accordingly.
Preston Hoffman, Shelby, N.C.
Copyright 1996 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the
Audio Cassette
edition.
This entry in Rendell's Inspector Wexford mystery series is probably better known to U.S. readers as DEATH NOTES. The apparent drowning death of Sir Manuel Carmarque, renowned flautist, draws Wexford and Burden, his assistant, into an investigation that will ultimately bring the detective to California and the south of France. Charles Kay reads in a pleasant, slightly rough voice well suited to the material. His range of accents, as well as his women's voices, is impressive. His renditions of American accents aren't perfect, but neither are they annoying. And while the mystery does meander a bit, and one does wonder whether a real police detective would really go to California on holiday primarily to continue an investigation, Kay's steady and skillful performance keeps one listening. M.A.M. © AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine--
Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
--This text refers to the
Audio Cassette
edition.
