THE KING'S GENERAL

Daphne du Maurier's skill cannot be contested though this predictable, melodramatic story of love, tragedy and shame among royals in medieval England doesn't rank with some of her other works. Stevenson is up to the task, however, and moves through this tedious tale graciously, achieving a presentation better than the book itself. Indeed, the effort the narrator puts into the characterizations, and theatrical skill she brings to the undertaking elevate the story and make it, if not gripping, at least fairly interesting. Stevenson's low, earthy voice compels the listener and saves the day. Hopefully, we'll hear more from Stevenson. R.B.F. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 96]