THE SECRETS OF MARY BOWSER

Mary Bowser is in an unusual position for a Civil War-era African-American. Born into slavery, she is freed and educated by her owner. Robin Miles gives Mary a gentle voice while vocally painting vivid contrasts with those she encounters in her new life. Miles crafts an amusing caricature of Mary’s rich beau and accurately delivers the brogue of a Scotsman. As a link in the Underground Railroad and a Union spy, Mary poses as a slave to Confederate first lady Varina Davis, who is sharply drawn by Miles as a spoiled, self-indulgent woman. This novel is a winner as delivered by a masterful narrator. J.J.B. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2012]