EMBERS

Sandor Marai's novel was first published in Europe in 1942, in the midst of WWII. Lost for a time and only recently translated into English, it contemplates the intricacies and consequences of a friendship between two men and the woman they love. More than a trite ménage à trois, the novel painstakingly explores platonic and erotic love from the point of view of age. Henrik, an old aristocrat living a reclusive life, prepares to entertain Konrad, the friend he hasn't seen in 41 years. Separated by betrayal, attempted murder, and possible infidelity, Henrik reflects on the events that led to Konrad's disappearance and his own self-imposed isolation. John Lee narrates with clarity. His deep baritone and patient articulation are a fine fit for the minute detail in this elegant period piece. S.J.H. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 03/JAN 04]