Week 8 -- exp 24 Jul
Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers -- narrated by Erin Moon -- unabridged (14.2 hrs)
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In this medieval fantasy, Ismae is marked by a blood-red stain, which predicates that father sell her nuptials as if she were a prized pig. But her wedding night reveals that she’s been chosen by Mortain, god of death, to be his vengeful assassin. Narrator Erin Moon ably handles this twisty tale of intrigue. She smoothly delivers French pronunciations and medieval vocabulary as she describes Ismae’s convent training and life at Brittany court. While Moon misses a few aural cues, she manages multiple voices superbly. Overall, she elevates the story with her warm and tender portrayal of a young woman who must understand her role as a spy, avenger, and lover.
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Hamlet by William Shakespeare -- narrated by LA Theatre Works -- dramatized (3.2 hrs)
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This American-accented HAMLET is a churning, turbulent production with many fine moments resulting from its fast pace. This energy may inevitably lead to a few missed opportunities for quiet and meditation (or for the listener to have a respite), but the overall effect is satisfying. The greatest range is shown by Emily Swallow as Ophelia. Stacy Keach is also excellent—imposing, chilling, and nuanced as the ghost. Josh Stamberg plays Hamlet as tormented and confrontational. One of his finest touches enhances the outset of the recorder scene with restraint and calm. Listeners who follow along with a text of the play will best keep up with the rapid pace.
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