THE GOWN A Novel of the Royal Wedding

Marisa Calin narrates this novel about the making of Princess (now Queen) Elizabeth's wedding dress during an intense six months in London in 1947. Calin's flowing voice smoothly describes the lives of the women involved, including Ann Hughes and Miriam Dassin, who sewed the gown and embroidered the incredible designs on the garment in Norman Hartnell's couturier studio. British native Ann is given a slightly crisp accent, which contrasts with Parisian Miriam's soft French tones. Calin uses a hard Canadian accent for Ann's Canadian granddaughter, Hannah, who searches for clues about her grandmother in present-day London. Descriptions of the meticulous embroidery are filled with images of beaded flowers on satin and lace. The women's passion for needlework is infectious. The beautiful gown and the excitement surrounding its creation come to life through Calin's exceptional performance. M.B.K. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2019]