CONVERSION

Khristine Hvam narrates parallel stories of witchcraft in seventeenth-century Salem and a mystery illness that strikes a private girls’ school in present-day Massachusetts. Hvam expertly differentiates the plotlines, using a refined and quiet voice for the story of Ann Putnam, while the contemporary story, told through the eyes of high school senior Colleen Rowley, is more fast paced and vibrant. Colleen’s voice has all the emotion of a stressed-out teen who is trying to cope with the pressures of high school. All the supporting characters, from the school nurse to Colleen’s “maybe” boyfriend, have distinct voices that fit their roles. Ann’s part of the plot doesn’t have as much action, but Hvam’s delivery creates a narrative drive that keeps listeners engaged. E.N. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2014]