THE PAYING GUESTS

In a remarkable combination, Juliet Stevenson enlivens Sarah Waters's rich, intimate character study set in 1920s London. In the genteel neighborhood of Champion Hill, Frances Wray and her mother are forced to take in “paying guests”—Leonard and Lilian Barber—to maintain their household after the war. Using a variety of British accents, Stevenson makes class and regional distinctions clear, bringing depth to the many characters and what divides them. As the romantic relationship between Frances and Lilian evolves, Stevenson conveys their sense of urgency and isolation with expert pacing. Flawless are the passages of confrontation between characters, as Stevenson never hesitates to modulate her tone, adjust her pace, or employ a deliberate pause to bring the listener in closer. An authentic, stirring performance. A.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2014]