THE CARETAKER

Slow to start, this novel is both domestic drama and spy thriller. Sam Dastor is the perfect choice to portray the main character, a Sikh man named Ranjit. Dastor's interpretation of Indian-accented English is as accurate a subcontinental accent as anyone is likely to hear. The variations between dialogue and Ranjit's interior thoughts are distinguished by variations in tone and pitch; the narrative elements are delivered in a deep tone at a somber pace. One drawback to the reading is the characterization of Ranjit's daughter, who is given a singsong, high-pitched voice that becomes annoying. Overall, though, Dastor moves deftly between male and female characters in a wide cast that includes senators, wives, and veterans. M.R. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2013]