WINTER A Berlin Family 1899-1945

This novel covers the period 1899-1945 in Germany. At the center is the Winter family: Harry, the wealthy husband; Veronica, his American-born wife; and sons Peter and Paul. Both sons see combat in WWI, then return to embark on quite different careers. Peter takes on management responsibility for his father's various businesses; Paul becomes a steadily rising functionary for the Nazi party. Narrator Robert Whitfield gives a sensitive, well-paced reading that captures the various atmospheres effectively. He deals well with American, British, and German accents. While the speakers are overwhelmingly male, he also succeeds with female voices. The major characters are consistently distinguished. Fans of Deighton's many spy novels will enjoy this venture into a different genre. Listeners unfamiliar with his previous work will also enjoy it and be impressed with Deighton's knowledge of Berlin and Germany. R.E.K. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/JUL 01]