SAVAGE GIRL

Narrator Edoardo Ballerini waltzes listeners through New York City society as Zimmerman’s macabre tale of civility and violence unfolds. Wealthy Hugo Delegate stands accused of serial murder. He does not proclaim his innocence, however, fearing that the true culprit is his adopted sister, Bronwyn, a “savage” girl raised in the Nevada wilderness. Distinctive voicings of the braggarts and businessmen, socialites and sinners associated with this story make Hugo’s extended account vividly clear for listeners. Gradually, Ballerini alters Hugo's characterization, deliciously hinting that Hugo may be the ultimate unreliable narrator. During the trial, Ballerini narrates Hugo’s long-winded defense at a brisk clip. A master of phrasing, Ballerini tightens the descriptive passages while lingering over Hugo’s dreamy musings. Subtle yet powerful, his elegant style works well. C.A. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2014]