GRAMERCY PARK

An opera star becomes the unlikely rescuer of Clara, a girl left penniless and on the brink of madness after the sudden death of her guardian. Clara haunts her benefactor's elaborate house in Gramercy Park and is discovered by prospective tenant Mario Alfieri, a tenor whose heart turns out to be as golden as his voice. He is shocked by Clara's loneliness and informs her she deserves a better life. Snobbish New York society is shocked by this turn of events, and an enthralling tale ensues, told skillfully by Alyssa Bresnahan. She offers subtle changes in tone and accent and delicately heartbreaking cracks in poor Clara's voice. This is truly a worthwhile listen. L.B.F. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 03]