BARRAYAR

Carol Cowan and Michael Hanson contribute a stellar performance in the continuing saga of the Vorkosigan family in this sequel to Shards of Honor. The different voices enhance Bujold's compelling tale of politics, palace coups and a daring rescue on the recently feudal planet Barrayar. Cowan's change in cadence gives Dru's personality added dimension; Hanson's sonorous tones define Bothari; and his lighter, more hesitant tones accurately depict Koudelka. His rendition of Count Piotr's querulousness is well conveyed in a crotchety voice. The only thing that keeps Barrayar from being a candidate for an Earphones Award is the whiny falsetto voices used for Miles and Gregor in their minuscule appearances as children. Perhaps a third narrator should be added when a child's voice is needed. D.T.H. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/JAN 99]