THE LITTLE HOUSE

This story of a woman's descent into domestic abuse hasn't lost any relevance since its 1997 publication. Narrator Alix Dunmore nails each character with her varying pitch and English accents. Young Ruth is struggling in her news radio career and in the early years of marriage to the overconfident and spoiled Patrick. Eventually, she's drawn out of their Bristol flat and ensconced in the little house down the lane from his parents' manor. In a formal tone and accent, Patrick's mother, Elizabeth, welcomes her . . . In this slow burn of a thriller Ruth's choices are stripped away so slowly that she hardly notices until she's in over her head. The anguish in Dunmore's voice turns to anger and chilling resolve, bringing Ruth to a cruel end. S.T.C. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2024]