THE LOST CENTURY

Caroline McLaughlin helps listeners keep up with the shifting settings and characters in this ambitious intergenerational novel about war, love, loss, and memory. She shows off her versatility while taking on a wide range of female characters. McLaughlin moves smoothly from grandmother Emily, who experiences Japan's occupation of Hong Kong during WWII, to great-aunt Violet and young Ophelia in present times. Fans of international literature will find much to admire. Most of the story unfolds at a key moment in modern Chinese history that is likely to be unfamiliar to many. McLaughlin's delivery provides insights on both the history and the personalities involved. M.R. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2023]