THE LAST TYCOONS The Secret History of Lazard Freres & Co.

The 150-year evolution of Lazard Freres from an aristocratic gentlemen's investment bank to today's publicly traded entity is a rich narrative of rivalries, power, and greed, combined with modern Wall Street history and the basics on investment banking. Robertson Dean's newscaster baritone offers just the right precision and gravitas for this detailed examination of the world of high finance. The long, and sometimes convoluted, tale is enhanced by Dean's subtle changes in tone for different speakers. His even-handed vocal characterizations move the story along, evoking empathy even for some of the most dislikable billionaires of our time. Dean never wavers in confidence or equanimity--whether he is describing the legal and financial intricacies of a complex merger deal or a lurid sex-and-murder scandal. R.M. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 08]