THE DIEZMO

This coming-of-age story, based on historical events, follows two young men in search of honor and glory at the birth of the state of Texas. Brian Reddy portrays the pair's youthful optimism at the start of the story and lets his voice lose steam as the heroes volunteer for the disastrous Mier expedition, an American raid on Mexico. After killing 600 Mexicans and still finding themselves outnumbered, the Texans surrender and then try to escape. The consequence is "The Diezmo," a game in which 10 percent of the 169 captives are chosen for execution. The others are sent to Perote, one of the worst prisons in history. Keep a handkerchief handy as the colorful, brave soldiers meet their fates. R.O. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 07]