TULIP FEVER

As speculation on tulip bulbs swept Holland in the 1630s, so you'll be swept up in this exciting tale. The plot is old--beautiful young wife of rich elderly man falls for poor artist--it's the resolution that fascinates. Scenes are short and told from differing viewpoints. Rula Lenska doesn't muff a line or a character. She manages changes in accent, age and sex with agility. You can readily understand why Sofia might be bored with her pompous spouse. Lenska's portrayal of the artist's tipsy half-wit servant who inadvertently ruins the lovers' plans is masterful. She also brings out the novel's sensual side by lingering on words as the writer lingers on descriptions. Though the fates awaiting the major players are creative and satisfying, you'll leave seventeenth-century Amsterdam and this tape with regret. J.B.G. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 00]