BETWEEN LOVE AND HONOR

The first part of Lapierre's novel puts listeners in the midst of Chechens who are locked in a desperate battle with Russians. Nick Podehl narrates with ferocity, lingering over graphic battle descriptions that show the brutality of war. With a change of locale to Russia, where one of the main characters, Jamal, is a hostage, Podehl's tone softens to reflect the gentility of the Russian nobility. The adjustments in style follow Jamal's emotional shift from fear to desire for peace with the Russians. Lapierre's fictional take on real events changes tone in surprising ways. Listeners who are up to the challenge will enjoy a story of war, politics, and romance. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2012]