LION EYES

Susan Ericksen's narration of LION EYES is clear, but like the story itself, unremarkable. Berlinski's plot develops primarily through email correspondence. While a reader would likely skim repetitive information--time of email, "to" and "from" address, subject line--the listener is subjected to Ericksen's repeating this information time and again. The effect is like listening to a document rather than a story. In addition to structural issues, the plot is thin and overly detailed. Secondary characters add fluff rather than substance. Story events seem happenstance and fail to rise to an emotional crescendo. While Ericksen's narration is adequate, the listening experience as a whole is disappointing. D.J.P. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]