Dinner Of Herbs

Cookson's rich tale, set in nineteenth-century Northumberland, follows the lives of Mary Ellen Lee, Hal Roystan and Roddy Greenbank. These three childhood friends are influenced by old Kate Makepeace's love and the Bannaman family's evil. Fate and hatred are palpable characters who affect not only these friends, but also their children. Reader Susan Jameson delivers an excellent presentation throughout this double-volume set. Her down-to-earth, crisp, British alto clearly distinguishes the characters and their emotions; she gives warmth and humor to old Kate's strong, dry voice. Jameson's finesse as a reader makes the listener eager to hear more of Cookson's compelling saga. J.A.H. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine