From Publishers Weekly
Charlie Mortdecai will appeal to listeners because he hovers in the gray area between right and wrong. He’s absolutely charming and cultured as he relates his illegal pursuits in the world of arts and antiques. Prebble’s mature raspy voice enhances Mortdecai’s appeal as he navigates listeners through this first hand account of his adventures in the United Kingdom and the United States as he delivers and acquires highly sought-after goods. Accompanied by his intelligent but gruff servant, Jock Strapp, Mortdecai uses his keen wit, quick thinking, and upper-class esteem to manage his way out of some zany predicaments. Although perhaps a little older sounding than the "middle aged" Mortdecai, Prebble’s timing, tone, and emphasis in this very sarcastic narrative more than makes up for the discrepancy. Unfortunately, poor sound editing leaves over half a dozen instances where Prebble’s voice audibly shifts, ruining the pre-established pace and tone as if the segment was re-recorded and slipped into the original piece. These distractions only briefly deter the listener from full encapsulating themselves in this enjoyable tale.
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Charlie Mordecai, a "degenerate aristocrat, amoral art dealer, seasoned epicurean, unwilling assassin, and acknowledged coward," is our protagonist in this comic British crime series from the 1970s. In this one, Charlie encounters a stolen painting and takes a motor trip to New Mexico in a very special Rolls Royce. Mayhem, mischief, close calls, sex, food, and drink follow--something for everyone. The excellent Simon Prebble enjoys himself throughout as he mixes escapades with discussions of wine and fine cuisine. While his well-known range isn't really tested, he does get to entertain us with American English of the Southwest, a host of British accents, and the occasional French accent. The listener's attention will never wander. R.E.K. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine--
Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
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