Sons and Lovers

This brisk performance of Lawrence's classic brings a complex family story to life, thanks to the contributions of many voices. The full-cast dramatization is an efficient means of providing the plot details, but purists may miss the lavish descriptions of the original novel. However, once lured into the conflicts facing the Morel family, the listener can't help but stay engaged with this story of love, loyalty, and disillusionment. What will happen when an unhappy marriage impacts the lives of its children? With an enthusiasm reminiscent of old radio dramas, the many voices are skilled at capturing the ear and holding one's attention. L.B.F. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine


Lawrence's 1913 classic, widely censored in its time but pretty tame today, portrays in astonishing depth the relationship between Paul Morel and his overly doting mother, herself trapped in a loveless marriage. Though Paul falls in love with women his own age, it is his mother whom he really loves, emotionally and psychologically, if not physically, and who poisons these other relationships until her death. Reader Jenny Sterlin is special, consistently on target with character differentiation according to education and status, poignant, dramatic, eager, and able to tell this fine story in a fine manner. Listeners who have yet to hear this story should rush to get it. T.H. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine