THE DISAPPEARED

Carolina Hoyos gives a powerful performance of a parent's worst nightmare. In 1976, Argentina was in the grip of its Dirty War. Lorena Ledesma, a young mother, is kidnapped, leaving her 3-year-old son, Matías, with her mother, Esme. As time passes, Esme covertly meets with the mothers of others who have disappeared. Learning that while imprisoned Lorena gave birth to a daughter, Esme begins a search that lasts three decades. Hoyos conveys the emotions of Argentines who experienced the Dirty War while also portraying the determination and courage of the mothers and grandmothers who sought justice. Hoyos convincingly conveys anxiety, panic, and fear, captivating listeners. She changes accents and nimbly uses English and Spanish when called for. A.M. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2024]