Escape

Foreign helicopter pilots are planning their escape from Iran now that the Shah has been removed from power in this novel derived from Clavell's 1986 bestseller WHIRLWIND. A Finnish pilot and his Iranian bride find their love being tested as they attempt to escape the political and religious upheaval that ensues. A barrage of nationalities must be managed in narrating this epic. John Lee delivers accents with precision and makes clear distinctions between characters. However, Lee's narration lacks the emotion essential to such a dramatic story. His monotone changes just slightly during a segment of thrilling action or incredible tension. Unfortunately, his reading doesn't give this saga the drama it is due. J.A.K. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine


The practice of polygamy by the FLDS (Fundamentalist Latter-Day Saints) has long made the breakaway Mormon sect an object of curiosity and controversy. In her memoir, Carolyn Jessop exposes this closed society in a book that is both intriguing and unsettling. In light of this, the text can be excused its occasional melodrama and hyperbole. What is more difficult to understand is the flat presentation offered by Ann Marie Lee. Clear and precise, her delivery is pleasant enough, but her lack of drama renders this more of a reading than a performance. The final segment of the book is an interview with the author. Listening to her soft-spoken and articulate voice, one wonders why she didn't read the book herself. M.O.B. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine