ALLAN QUATERMAIN

This sequel to Haggard’s more popular KING SOLOMON’S MINES is, like its predecessor, a story of high adventure in the wilds of interior Africa a century ago. Unlike its predecessor, it’s plodding in spots. And so, unfortunately, is the narration. Fred Williams, earnest, blessed with a lovely baritone voice, at times as richly dramatic as the events he describes, too often reads individual words, not the customary word clusters. Moreover, his frequent failure to distinguish among a fairly small cast of characters will puzzle listeners eager to know who is saying what. Devotees of robust expeditions will stay the course; less enthusiastic fellow travelers may drop out. T.H. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPT 97]