SHY CREATURES

Lucy Scott masterfully delivers this intense account based on a true story. In Croydon, England, in 1964, while answering a domestic disturbance call, police discover an elderly woman in distress and her 37-year-old nephew, unkempt, nearly naked, fearful, and mute. William Tapping hasn't been out of the house in decades. Helen Hansford, an art therapist at Westbury Park Psychiatric Hospital, where William is taken, discovers he is both sane and a talented artist. Scott's performance shines as secrets are slowly revealed. She delivers alternating chapters of past and present, sounding both caring and efficient as Helen; a little smarmy as her married lover, Gil; and completely authentic as the aunts. Clare Chambers's well-crafted prose and Scott's outstanding performance make this beautifully told story ring with truth. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2024]