SPARKLING CYANIDE

Rosemary Barton drinks a glass of champagne at her birthday party and promptly dies of cyanide poisoning. A year later, six people--among them her sister, her husband, and her lovers--think about her murder. Christie's well-drawn characters are introduced in a novel way: Each relates his or her memories of Rosemary in a separate chapter, revealing plenty of motives. Robin Bailey develops these characters beautifully, easily handling the book's changing viewpoint. His portrayals of George, Rosemary's stuffy but sympathetic husband, and Iris, her younger sister, are particularly deft. Christie fans in particular and mystery buffs in general will enjoy listening to this fine production. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 02/ JAN 03]