STORMY WEATHER

Colleen Delany brings out the strength of character in three women who struggle to survive the Depression in Texas. Delany's drawl rings as true as the author's research, and her narration adds to the local color that is so much a part of the story. Delany differentiates the Stoddard daughters with varying tonality. Writer Bea is dreamy; Mayme is practical. The focus character is Jeanine, beloved by her late father, a charming, alcoholic gambler. Delany portrays Jeanine as a complex character, showing her determination when she fights for her family and her confusion as she tries to choose what she really wants in life. S.W. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]