FORBIDDEN FRUIT Corinna Chapman, Book 5

Narrator Louise Siversen is in her element as Australian baker Corinna Chapman, worldly wise and sardonic, whose life revolves around her bakery and the residents (both human and animal) of her apartment building. The fifth in a series, the story involves the search for a runaway pregnant teen during the Christmas season in Melbourne. The story's real appeal is its heroine, and Siversen's expressive voice is perfect for Corrina's authority, quick wit, and empathy. Siversen's portraits of Corinna's eccentric acquaintances are equally engaging. Standouts include Meroe, a mysterious local witch whose speech Siversen imbues with portent, and Jason, Corinna's teenaged apprentice, whom Siversen manages to make sound both adenoidal and heartfelt. E.M. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2014]