Most people don't think of Ian Fleming's James Bond novels as great literature, but that's exactly how Kenneth Branagh, one of our finest actors, narrates this one. His performance is notable for exploring the subtleties of the villain Scaramanga and focusing on Bond's interior life—both of which may surprise those who know 007 only through the films. The setting, more important here than in most novels, comes across as sensuous and menacing. There are moments when Branagh's voice goes very quiet—perhaps too quiet if you’re listening in the car—but the effect is mesmerizing. Some traditionalists might prefer Bond to have a Scots accent, but that’s a minor quibble with a marvelous reading. D.M.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2014]
Trade Ed. Blackstone Audio 2014
CD ISBN 978-1-4815-0793-6 $24.95 Four CDs
DD ISBN 978-1-4815-0888-9 $13.95
Library Ed. Blackstone Audio 2014
CD ISBN 978-1-4815-0791-2 $69.00 Four CDs
MP3-CD ISBN 978-1-4815-0792-9 $19.95 One MP3-CDs
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