BLOOD AND GOLD

History and philosophy come together in the engaging tale of Marius, caregiver for "Those Who Must be Kept." We experience the rise and fall of civilizations through the eyes of this ancient scholar, painter, philosopher, and lover of humankind. Roger Rees brings a tender charm to the 2,000-year-old blood-drinker. His voice is irresistible, lush, and seductive. Rees's renditions of the intriguing courtesan, Eudoxia; the beautiful human, Bianca; and the always elusive Pandora are compelling. Each is as unique as her character deserves. Fans of earlier installments of THE VAMPIRE CHRONICLES may find the beginning of this episode heavy with exposition, but once they begin Marius's tale, Rice and Rees transport us through the millennia with practiced ease. S.J.H. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/JUL 02]