WHITETHORN WOODS

Life changes for Rossmore, England, when a bypass threatens Whitethorn Woods, home to a local (unsanctified) religious shrine. At the center of the storm is Father Flynn, who listens to everyone while harboring his own doubts about the shrine's power. Paul Michael reads the chapters told by Father Flynn with conviction and empathy; his understated Irish brogue adds just the right touch of atmosphere. It also blends perfectly with the shades of accent used by Sile Bermingham, who reads the majority of the book with admirable clarity combined with obvious affection for the characters. Striving young couples, tired pensioners, worried farmers--they're all given convincing voice in this gentle, involving novel. A.C.S. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 07]