THE LOWLAND

The combination of a prize-winning bestselling novelist and an experienced narrator does not necessarily make for a compelling audio title. Sunil Malhotra, who is often the narrator of choice when it comes to giving voice to the Indian subcontinent, fails to bring the vigor of young boys frolicking in childhood to the listener. Perhaps his understated delivery is intended to reflect the tragedy at the core of the story, but his muted, somber tone becomes monotonous over time. While there’s no technical fault in his precise, deliberate style, the overall effect of his steady pace leaves the listener wishing for any slight change in volume or pace. M.R. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2013]