Fever

The fact that we still know names like Mrs. O'Leary and Lizzie Borden, dramatic figures from the late nineteenth century, speaks loudly of their collective influence. FEVER takes on the story of Mary Mallon, who was known to the media of her time as Typhoid Mary. This novelization of the life of a hardworking Irish immigrant is tough to resist, largely due to the professionalism of Candace Thaxton's narration. Thaxton transitions fluidly between Mallon's brogue and the rest of the narrative, presenting a clear-eyed view of the time period and its people. Details of life in New York City and its environs are fascinating, and Mary herself is a complex character. At times, the story slows, but Thaxton gets it going again with her steady delivery. L.B.F. (c) AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine

Having escaped from forced polygamy in WITHER, Rhine and her attendant, Gabriel, seek out the twin brother she had to leave behind. As Rhine evades imprisonment only to be thrust into a prostitution ring, narrator Angela Lin's somber voice perfectly embodies her downward spiral into hopelessness. Lin's solemn tones draw listeners deeply into Rhine's despondency as she finally returns to Manhattan, only to find her brother is gone without a trace. As Rhine's emotional pain manifests in a physical ailment, Lin's even tone and pacing highlight Rhine's shocking blackouts, pain, and refusal to return to her life as First Wife, even to prevent her own death. Listeners will be avidly anticipating the climax of the Chemical Garden Trilogy. J.M. (c) AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine