THE ROAD TO CARDINAL VALLEY

Kate Forbes's narration of this audiobook starts off strong as Lucas McGavin, a character from Fowler's previous book, THE SADDLEMAKER'S WIFE, has an amusing encounter with a small child at a diner. However, the listener soon becomes aware that something in the narration is off--the delivery is stilted, with disjointed pauses that distract from the story. As Lucas; his brother's widow, Ruby; and their families take turns telling their stories of loss and tough times, mainly caused by alcoholism, Forbes is sometimes engaged, bringing the characters to life and capturing the range of emotions--from sadness to unexpected humor. But in the next moment, an odd pause causes the emotions to fall flat. The story may be best enjoyed by those familiar with the first book. M.M.G. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2013]