THE LEAST LIKELY BRIDE

An 18-year-old girl of nobility running off to shack up with a pirate was a lot more scandalous in 1648 than it would be today. Nonetheless, young Lady Olivia Granville must follow her heart. Narrator Jenny Sterlin's performance maintains the light tone of this historical romance while bringing some depth of character to the women who shape its plot. Olivia carries an understated gravity suited to a young scholar, while Portia is a convincing lady soldier and unconventional mother. Sterlin's male characters are only slightly less realistic, but they do receive clear vocal identities, especially the smarmy politicians and a child molester. R.P.L. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 01]