The Portrait of a Lady

Classic books make you realize why you listen to audiobooks in the first place; they're interesting, have great characters and are well crafted. Laural Merlington's narration of this classic starts off unevenly, but she finds a rhythm around tape two and takes off from there. She has a sweet voice, which she uses to create diverse characters, especially that of Isabel Archer, the book's protagonist. Merlington gives Isabel a voice that ranges from obsequious to forceful; this range allows us to become more involved in her plight. R.I.G. (c) AudioFile, Portland, Maine


There are few hours in life more agreeable than hearing a fine story told well. Wanda McCaddon's distinguished British accent provides a smooth narration of one of Henry James's most-loved novels. This 1881 story tells of Isabel Archer, an American heiress, as she meets the upper classes in England during her first trip abroad. A love story ensues, full of Jamesian conflict, and Archer eventually chooses among several suitors and decides how she will lead her life. One of James's most piercing psychological novels, this book benefits from McCaddon's even, perfectly paced delivery. Her reading brings out the subtlety of this wonderful work. K.M. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine