PANHANDLE

Jim Jenner infuses this Western tale with his warm, rich drawl. Nate Reynolds, who's from a well-to-do family, and Billy Champion, a saddle tramp who's a bit stubborn, are enjoying the open range of the Texas Panhandle in the late 1880s. Jenner finds unique voices for the various characters Nate and Billy encounter, including Barbie, who ends up carrying Billy's child but marrying Nate. The struggles of relationships tested by jealousy, financial troubles, and misunderstanding complicate the second half of the story. Overall, Jenner's reading is smooth and straightforward, and he adds tension and drama while making the most of Cogburn's authentic cowboy adventure. S.C.A. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2013]