THE STARTER WIFE

In another excursion into the fantastic plastic world of Hollywood, Gigi Grazer emerges with extended claws and vibrant wit. Narrator Susan Ericksen embodies the titular character, who tells her own story. A middle-aged soon-to-be-divorcée, she has lost her identity--and her good looks, thanks to excessive cosmetic surgery--during her marriage to a meathead studio boss. Ericksen plays not only the comedy well but also the pathos and eventual bathos. Listeners will find themselves feeding all 10 CDs into their favorite players as this story transcends mere sentiment and satire. The production sustains its "indie" integrity, with fun and heart to the very end. D.J.B. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 05/ JAN 06]