City of Lies

Sylvia Lisle narrates insightful glimpses into the often opaque nation of Iran and it citizens. With its husky timbre, her deliberate narration and precise enunciation create a scholarly persona, which she maintains throughout the volume; however, her undifferentiated emphasis becomes somewhat repetitive when listened to for long stretches. Lyrical descriptions of Iran's streets and people will engage listeners. The liveliness Lisle gives to the reported speech of ordinary citizens brings the strengths of fictional characterizations to a nonfiction title. M.R. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine