A DANGEROUS WOMAN

Martha Horgan, the central figure in Morris's deeply affecting second novel, is an endlessly exasperating character. Suffering a mental illness that is never defined, she yearns for love and human connections yet is incapable of fathoming how to fulfill those needs. Surrounded by people who are themselves selfish, self-absorbed or uncaring, Martha's possibilities for happiness are dim indeed. In a heartbreaking and intelligent performance, Phimister conveys the depths of Martha's desire and her frustrations at deciphering the nature of others. Phimister's clipped voice captures the tortured young Vermont woman's vulnerability, as well as the brittleness that intimidates those around her. As the story proceeds, the sense of impending calamity for a character you have come to like becomes almost unbearable. M.O. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 98]