THE DEVIL'S ADVOCATE

Monsignor Blaise Meredith doesn't fear death, but its surprising imminence forces him to evaluate the meaning of his life. Sent to southern Italy to investigate a petition for sainthood, Meredith discovers the facts surrounding a remarkable man, and the rich humanity of his own soul. George Guidall's interpretation of this 1959 classic captures all of its poignancy. His measured, dignified narrative and cultured enunciation remain fresh and compelling through spirited dialogue and complicated passages of Catholic theology. Local dialect receives enough consideration to set the scene, but not so much as to detract from the story. Guidall's clear characterizations bring to life peasant and cardinal, saint and sinner, elderly cleric and brazen youth, each with respect and insight. R.P.L. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/JUL 02]