ARCHANGEL

The Oxfordian antihero of this taut, atmospheric thriller seeks to redeem his lackluster academic career by ferreting out Stalin's notebook from its Moscow hiding place. British stage star Anton Lesser plays each melodramatic moment at full Shakespearean throttle. One can almost feel the intensity of his acute concentration. Although his slightly adenoidal voice discomfitted this reviewer, most listeners will find his a satisfying performance. Y.R. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 99]