THE SEAMSTRESS OF NEW ORLEANS

Narrator Jessica Marchbank is a classically trained vocalist, and that shows in her performance of this audiobook focused on two women in early-twentieth-century New Orleans. Constance Halstead is a young widow; Alice Butterworth may as well be, as her husband has simply disappeared. But their backgrounds are different. Constance has a trust fund, while Alice has only her sewing talent. The women come together to prepare Constance's gown for the first Mardi Gras ball to be organized by women. Marchbank's narration is rhythmic, and her voice at times is flute-like, higher than most and just a bit breathy. Her performance is expansive, especially with dialogue. Some listeners may enjoy the dramatic flair, while others may find it a bit much. G.S. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2022]