TAKE IT BACK

Three narrators give clashing perspectives in this look at a British community rocked by sexual violence. Zara Kaleel is the lawyer-turned-counselor at a sexual assault center where 16-year-old Jodie, who is white, shows up, accusing four Muslim boys of rape. In the largest part of the story, Tania Rodrigues gives Zara an elegant yet emotional voice, revealing a woman battling her own demons while being labeled a cultural traitor. Sophie Bentinck's Jodie has an exhausted air with an edge of strength; her voice is slightly dulled in dialogue due to the deformity covering the character's mouth. Sartaj Garewal's straightforward delivery is warmed by his youthful character voices for the boys, who are juxtaposed with the deeds they're accused of. Skillfully crafted revelations will keep riveted listeners guessing. S.T.C. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2020]