V FOR VICTORY

Narrator Lucy Briers enriches this WWII story emphasizing the lives and plights of ordinary people in London. Listeners meet Vee Sledge and her unofficial adoptee, Noel, who try to keep a low profile because of potential danger. Vee takes in an array of lovable eccentric lodgers who pay part of their rent by tutoring the exceptional Noel. Each character is enjoyable and memorably portrayed. Briers's depiction of Air Raid Warden Winnie Crowther's brave actions makes the horrors of the war a reality. Believable American soldiers add further dimension as they help and befriend the locals. Both shy Noel--who also cooks, bakes, and keeps chickens--and tentative Mr. Jepson--a boarder who brings a dose of romance and chivalry--particularly shine in this exceptional listen. S.G.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2021]