THE WIZARD'S DAUGHTER

Marianne Ransom, orphaned daughter of a country squire, is rescued from a questionable living on the back streets of London by a mysterious attorney. Adopted by a wealthy duchess, she's told she isn't who she thinks she is and that she has powers she never knew existed. Norma West delivers Marianne's part with a spirited sweetness. The young Duke Henry, a spoiled child of 12, is revealed as a mischievous, but thoroughly lovable, brat (like many boys that age). West's portrayals of other characters are less adept, especially the men. Overall, the production offers lively entertainment from start to finish, remarkably free of the dull spots that plague so many unabridged books. R.P.L. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 02]