TWO NGAIO MARSH MYSTERIES

The BBC knows radio drama, and these old chestnuts are safe in their hands. The first drama reminds one of the board game CLUE, as parlor games at an old country house lead to murder and, naturally, accusations all round. Each cast member knows his or her way around a microphone and a character, supplying realistic sounds of shock, sorrow, and mock innocence as needed. Next, a devious family of aristocrats attempts to bamboozle its way through murder, inheritance, and petty fraud. The players seem to enjoy the game as the amusing bunch of rascals is brought up short by Chief Inspector Alleyn. This is solid radio fare, sure to entertain all ages. D.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 03/JAN 04]