TANGIER

Dan Lake, American vice-consul, becomes embroiled in the lives of estranged Americans living and dying in the exotic land of Morocco. Martha Mellinger delivers this story in soft tones and a no-nonsense intonation. Flat American, harsh French, and subtle Arabic are just some of the accents Mellinger switches between while maintaining a stilted narration. Clipped phrases are used to depict tension, which falls flat as the action dies quickly in each scene. Originally published in 1978, the story's themes of homosexuality, homophobia, and drug abuse are recounted with terms that are now offensive. Further, the narrative switches from consular activities to political intrigue and back in a choppy manner. While Mellinger's unemotional narration is adequate, her vocal range fails to replicate male tones. Overall, listeners will be disappointed in this tale of espionage. M.B.K. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2013]