THE GARDEN OF EVENING MISTS

For those who love historical fiction, this title will be a rare find. The facts of the Japanese internment camps run during WWII by the Empire become personal through Eng’s heroine, who wanders the Cameron Highlands in 1951. As her wish to create a garden in memory of her dead sister leads her to a Japanese gardener, the listener learns the story of her own survival. Anna Bentinck gives voice to the wounded female protagonist in a precise and measured cadence. Her rendering of Japanese accents, however, leaves much to be desired. The dialogue of the male Asian characters is affected and lands heavy on the ear. Her pitch, tone, and pace reflect the somber themes of the novel itself. For those looking for a lively read, this may not be the title as the unfolding mysteries occur at a measured pace and in subdued voice. M.R. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2013]