VERA

The success of the film ENCHANTED APRIL renewed interest in Australian-born author Elizabeth Von Arnim's work. She felt VERA, published in 1921, was her best. Vera is the wife of the late Edvard Wemyss, who has died under mysterious circumstances before the novel opens, but who, nonetheless, is a force throughout. Nicki Paull brings this macabre story to life, breathing life into innocent Lucy; self-absorbed, creepy Mr. Wemyss; and suspicious, impotent Aunt Dot. With her voice Paull becomes the bizarre personalities of these characters. Her performance will make your skin crawl as you listen in fascination, knowing there's nothing you can do to rescue the doomed Lucy. The inclusion of extensive biographical information at the start and conclusion of the book provides context for the story. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2008]