GILT

After the disappointment of his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, Henry VIII wants a wife who is young and vivacious, a description that perfectly fits the lovely and spoiled Catherine Howard. Jennifer Ikeda gives voice to the story of Catherine’s meteoric rise and devastating fall, as observed by her best friend from childhood, Kitty Tylney. Both Longshore and Ikeda let the innate drama of Catherine’s story shine through without adding melodrama. Ikeda portrays Kitty realistically and ably differentiates the other characters. She is particularly effective at conveying just how spoiled Catherine is. Ikeda is well cast in this role, making GILT a wonderful listening experience. J.L.K. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2012]