RUMOURS

Julia Barrie narrates with an array of voices perfectly suited to this story, which involves the whisperings and rumors surrounding the sale of the exclusive estate of Longhall, a real estate appraiser named Stella, and a seemingly indifferent but very eligible bachelor named Xander. Humorous and engaging, Barrie’s inflections and variety of accents transport listeners to the quaint English setting. Especially strong among the colorful characters is Lady Fortescue, whose snooty tone matches her aristocratic station. Barrie’s timing and solid delivery keep the story moving, even through some puzzlingly sexual aspects of the plot. M.F. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2012]