MAKING WAVES

The lead characters in this charming novel told from four viewpoints face life-altering challenges. Chapters titled for characters Donnette, Ellis, Della, and Taylor are read by Colleen Delany, Faith Potts, Nanette Savard, and Barrett Whitener. Regrettably, it's unclear which actor is assigned to each of these fascinating individuals; one assumes that Whitener vocalizes Taylor, the lone male. Whitener applies an appealing naïve tone to his chapters and is convincing with a tongue-tied character's words. The characterization of social climber Ellis is as funny as the self-righteous woman herself. Neither the chapters nor the characterization attributed to Donnette ring true. Overall, each narrator seems to struggle to bring consistency and distinction to his or her lead character, a problem that emphasizes the ambiguous impression left on the listener. J.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 04]